Society of Trauma Nurses position statement on screening for alcohol use in adult primary care.

Abstract

The Society of Trauma Nurses believes: h Alcohol abuse screenings and brief behavioral counseling interventions (SBIs) should be done in emergency departments and trauma centers to identify at-risk patients for morbidity and mortality related to their alcohol consumption. h TheUniformPolicy Provision Law,which allows insurers to refuse to pay medical costs for patients injured while under the influence, should be repealed in all states. h Alcohol screening and alcohol education should be integrated into curricula, continuing education, and standards for all healthcare professionals. h Nurses should participate in collaborative research, education, and data gathering to improve the care of patients with alcohol use problems.