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Definition Clarification
Jo Coleman
Jun 3, 2009 8:55:31 am

When screening an individual for Substance Use:  Alcohol

If the individual has had an incident ie DUI; Public Intoxication; accident; physical fight or Cannabis/Cocaine use single episode (for example)

Should Axis I be "No diagnosis on Axis I  with a comnent of something like "alcohol related incident".

 

Alcohol -related Disorders are other medical conditions related to the long term use of Alcohol.  Right?

 

One single DUI does not meet Criteria for Alcohol Abuse because it has not been seen as recurrent.  Right?

But if the individual admits to driving while under the influence from time to time...in the last 12 months...does that make it reccurent by self reporting?  And thus warrant the dx of Alcohol Abuse.

 

Comments Please.  Some descrepancies in the place I work.  Thanks.

Christopher Lee
Aug 6, 2009 12:42:16 am
Hi,

It is my understanding that while the DUI is a legal matter, and as you have pointed out, not recurrent, the self admitted behavior of drinking when impaired on a recurrent basis can be considered physically hazerdous, and therefore may be considered Alcohol Abuse.