HOW TO CONDUCT A BRIEF INTERVENTION


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HOW TO CONDUCT A BRIEF INTERVENTION

FOR AT-RISK DRINKING (no abuse or dependence)

Step 3 Advise and Assist

State your conclusion and recommendation clearly and relate them to medical concerns or findings.
Gauge readiness to change drinking habits.

Is patient ready to commit to change?

Restate your concern.
Encourage reflection.
Address barriers to change.
Reaffirm your willingness to help.

Help set a goal.
Agree on a plan.
Provide educational materials. (See www.niaaa.nih.gov/guide.)

STEP 4 At Followup: Continue Support

REMINDER: Document alcohol use and review goals at each visit.

Was patient able to meet and sustain drinking goal?

Acknowledge that change is difficult.
Support positive change and address barriers.
Renegotiate goal and plan; consider a trial of abstinence.
Consider engaging significant others.
Reassess diagnosis if patient is unable to either cut down or abstain.

Reinforce and support continued adherence to recommendations.
Renegotiate drinking goals as indicated (e.g., if the medical condition changes or if an abstaining patient wishes to resume drinking).
Encourage to return if unable to maintain adherence.
Rescreen at least annually.

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