388: Week 9 - Addictions

Question 1

What is important to keep in mind when intervening with addictions?

Answer 1

• proper assessment of substance abuse problems (CAGE)
• if substance abuse is concerning, be sure to involve additional HCP’s
• examine reasons for substance abuse once admitted
• if self-medicating for mental illness, assist pt to get proper help for the illness at hand (i.e depression)
• examine pt’s coping methods ->identify and learn healthy coping methods
• help pt to identify triggers for abuse, so coping methods can be developed to counteract triggers
• encourage attendance in support groups (AA)
• understand psychological and physiological aspects of withdrawal
• involve family
• validate, commend pt on successes
• do not pass judgment when pt relapses

Question 2

What is the CAGE assessment tool?

Answer 2

C - have you ever felt you need to CUT down on your drinking?
A - have ppl ANNOYED you by criticizing your drinking?
G - have you ever felt GUILTY about your drinking?
E - have you ever needed an EYE-OPENER in the morning?

Question 3

a score of two ‘YES’s’ or more on a CAGE assessment likely indicates what?

Answer 3

probable substance abuse problem