Unhealthy Alcohol Use: Improving Practice Compliance

Abstract

Unhealthy alcohol use is a complex health problem that plagues the veteran population. The Alcohol Use Disorder Identification-Consumption (AUDIT-C) and brief intervention for positive AUDIT-C screens are evidence-based preventative practices for reducing or eliminating negative outcomes and improving health. This Doctor of Nursing Practice project aimed to improve alcohol-related clinical practice compliance by increasing the number of AUDIT-C and Positive Alcohol Follow-Up Clinical Reminders during a routine primary care appointment. The IOWA model-revised and recovery-based care concepts were used to guide project development and practice change. Strategies implemented during the project included staff education, creation of a virtual appointment schedule, and planned clinic workflow. The AUDIT-C completion scores increased to 93% or higher throughout project implementation. Out of four clinics, only one clinic increased their Positive Alcohol Follow-Up completion scores. Providing staff education regarding unhealthy alcohol use and the impact on health and addressing staff’s perception of the importance of alcohol screening and their comfort level discussing alcohol use with patients are effective strategies for improving alcohol-related clinical practice compliance.