10) Substance Misuse

Question 1

Why do people use drugs and drink?

Answer 1

Social influences
Deprived area of living
Mental health

Question 2

What problems can alcohol misuse lead to?

Answer 2

Physical health (cancer, heart disease)
Offending behaviours
Mental health problems

Question 3

Describe low risk drinking:

Answer 3

Abstention or people who drink within safe guidelines

Question 4

Describe hazardous drinking:

Answer 4

Drinking over sensible limits, either regular consumption or less frequent heavy sessions
No alcohol related problems

Question 5

Describe harmful drinking:

Answer 5

Above recommended limits and clear evidence of alcohol related harm

Question 6

Describe moderate dependence:

Answer 6

Degree of dependence but not drinking to relieve symptoms

Detox in community

Question 7

Describe severe dependence:

Answer 7

Serious and long standing problems, significant withdrawal and drinking to relieve symptoms
Detox at inpatient

Question 8

Describe an alcohol screening tool:

Answer 8

CAGE
Feel you should cut down 
Annoyed by criticism
Guilty 
Eye opener - drink in morning

Question 9

How can a patient be detoxed?

Answer 9

Chlordiazepoxide, vit B1, diazepam

Question 10

What supportive treatment can an alcoholic be given?

Answer 10

Vit B1, B complex and thiamine to reduce harm and treat Wernicke’s

Question 11

What relapse prevention may be provided?

Answer 11

Disulfiram