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One way that you can determine if you have a problem with alcohol or drugs involves taking a drug and alcohol pre-screen. People often confuse a pre-screen with similar sounding tests.
Identification
A drug and alcohol pre-screen is a questionnaire presented to people that inquires about their history with these intoxicating substances, reports the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).
Misconceptions
A pre-screen differs from a drug and alcohol diagnostic test, reports the NIAAA. Diagnostic testing establishes the physical presence of drugs and alcohol, usually by testing the blood. A pre-screen depends on the patient's responses.
Function
A drug and alcohol pre-screen seeks to determine any potential problems a person may have with alcohol or certain types of illicit drugs, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Uses
Alcohol and drug pre-screens are often used by doctors to determine if the patient faces any health risks with their current alcohol or drug use, reports the NIAAA. The court system may use a pre-screen to determine what kind of treatment program a person with an alcohol or drug related offense needs.
Disadvantage
A drug and alcohol pre-screen relies on the person questioned to respond accurately and honestly about their substance use. Thus, a diagnostic test often accompanies a pre-screen, reports the NIAAA.
Source:
National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism; Alcohol Alert; 2005
National Institute on Drug Abuse; NIDA-Modified ASSIST---Prescreen V1.0F
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