What is the recommended next step when alcohol use is identified as risky by an AUDIT score?

• A. Immediate inpatient rehab.
• B. Do nothing; no intervention.
• C. Brief intervention to address risky drinking.
• D. Only prescribe medication without counseling.

Answer: (C)

When risky drinking is identified by the AUDIT, the recommended next step is a brief intervention. This is a concise, structured conversation that provides feedback about the risk, discusses drinking patterns, and collaborates with the patient to set realistic goals to reduce intake. It’s designed to motivate change and offer practical strategies, often delivered in a single visit or a few short follow-ups. This approach is evidence-based for people who drink at risky levels but don’t have full-blown dependence, and it’s commonly done in primary care, clinics, or community settings.

In contrast, immediate inpatient rehab is reserved for more severe cases with dependence or withdrawal risk, not the typical next step after a screening that flags risky use. Doing nothing isn’t appropriate, and while medications can be part of treatment, they’re usually used within a broader plan that includes counseling or behavioral support rather than as the sole next step.