MS Alcohol Standardized Patient FAQs

From Clinicaltools.com

Possible Questions Patient Might Receive (from doctor)

Contents 1 Introduction 2 Methods Tried 3 Alcohol Use 4 Drinking Patterns 5 Withdrawal 6 Long-Term Effects 7 Mixing Drugs and Alcohol

Introduction

1. So, why have you come to see me today?

* I'm having problems sleeping. I thought it would go away, but it's just been getting worse and now it's affecting my ability to concentrate at work.
  

Methods Tried

2. What methods have you tried to help you get to sleep?

* Well, I tried meditation first of all, but that didn't help at all. Now I'm either drinking a glass of wine before bedtime to help me relax or taking a Unisom when I really need it.
  

Alcohol Use

3. How often do you think you have a drink? And how much do you drink at that time?

* Well, we have to take clients out for dinners and there's the conferences we have to attend to get word out about the company. Most weeks I also go out with my fellow executives to talk about strategy or just unwind. I have to be social, it's a part of the job. I'd say I drink about five times a week and have about 2-3 drinks when I do drink.
  

Drinking Patterns

4. Have you ever given thought to your drinking patterns?

* No, why would I? Everyone has a social drink now and then. It's not a problem.
  

Withdrawal

5. Have you ever noticed any physical changes when you don't have the usual amount of alcohol during a particular week?

* I don't know. There's alot of stress now, so there's always headaches and emotional ups and downs with the job. I wouldn't necessarily say that's to do with alcohol, but more a reaction to stress.
  

Long-Term Effects

6. Do you understand the long-term effects that your drinking could have on your body?

* You mean liver failure and all that, like what alcoholics get? I'm not that bad, so I don't have to worry.
  

Mixing Drugs and Alcohol

7. Do you ever take sleep medications and alcohol at the same time?

* No, that would be dangerous! When I can't get to sleep, I'll do one or the other, never both.