SFST Observation Skills 2

Question 1

During the VGN (Vertical Gaze Nystagmus) check, an officer observes nystagmus at maximum elevation. What does this indicate?

Accepted Answer

It may indicate high doses of depressants, inhalants, or PCP

Answer

Vertical Gaze Nystagmus is associated with high doses of CNS depressants, inhalants, or PCP, not typically alcohol alone.

Question 2

When observing a suspect's eyes during the HGN test, the officer should hold the stimulus approximately how far from the suspect's nose?

Accepted Answer

12–15 inches

Answer

The stimulus should be held 12–15 inches from the suspect's nose and slightly above eye level for proper HGN administration.

Question 3

An officer notices a suspect has resting nystagmus before the HGN test begins. What should the officer do?

Accepted Answer

Discontinue the HGN test and note the observation in the report

Answer

Resting nystagmus can indicate very high BAC or other medical conditions, and the officer should note it and consider not administering the full test.

Question 4

During the Walk-and-Turn test, the officer observes the suspect take 9 steps on the way out instead of the required 9 steps. What is the correct scoring?

Accepted Answer

This is not a scorable clue under NHTSA guidelines

Answer

Taking the correct number of steps (9) on the way out is not a clue — only taking more or fewer than instructed counts.

Question 5

In the One-Leg Stand test, what is the maximum time the officer should observe the suspect before stopping the test?

Accepted Answer

30 seconds

Answer

The One-Leg Stand test is timed for 30 seconds; the officer counts aloud and stops the test at that point.

(SFST) Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Certified Practice Test

(SFST) Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Certified Practice Test

SFST Observation Skills 2