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Drug Abuse and Alcoholism Flashcards

7 cards from real NRCME practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Drug Abuse and Alcoholism flashcards as text

  1. Which substance produces a positive urine immunoassay for opioids and is commonly prescribed for ADHD?

    Answer: Dextromethorphan at high doses, which may cause false-positive opioid screens

    Dextromethorphan (found in many OTC cough preparations) can cause false-positive opioid immunoassay results at high doses.

  2. A Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) recommends 'follow-up testing' for a driver who has returned to duty. How long can the employer require this testing?

    Answer: At least 6 tests in the first 12 months, continuing for up to 5 years

    DOT requires at least 6 unannounced follow-up tests within the first 12 months, and the SAP can direct testing for up to 60 months total.

  3. Which of the following is a disqualifying condition related to alcohol use under FMCSA medical standards?

    Answer: Current clinical diagnosis of alcoholism

    FMCSA regulations disqualify drivers with a current clinical diagnosis of alcoholism regardless of treatment history.

  4. What is the primary pharmacological mechanism by which naltrexone reduces alcohol craving?

    Answer: Opioid receptor blockade, reducing the rewarding effects of alcohol

    Naltrexone blocks mu-opioid receptors, which reduces the euphoric and reinforcing effects of alcohol and decreases craving.

  5. A driver's DOT pre-employment urine test is reported as 'dilute negative.' What action is required?

    Answer: The employer may, but is not required to, order an immediate recollection under direct observation

    A dilute negative result permits the employer to require one recollection under direct observation, though this is not mandatory for non-safety-sensitive employers.

  6. Which drug is most associated with causing persistent cognitive impairment that could affect commercial driving safety even after cessation?

    Answer: Chronic heavy alcohol use

    Chronic heavy alcohol use causes Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome and other forms of alcohol-related neurological damage that can persist after sobriety.

  7. Which DOT-mandated test type is triggered when a driver is involved in a fatal accident while operating a CMV?

    Answer: Post-accident testing, which must occur within 8 hours for alcohol and 32 hours for drugs

    Post-accident testing is required following a fatal accident; alcohol testing must occur within 8 hours and drug testing within 32 hours.