CAGE Assessment Tool for Alcohol Use

The CAGE Assessment Tool is a widely used screening tool for identifying potential problems with alcohol use.

It consists of four simple questions and is easy to administer.

Each question targets a specific aspect of drinking behavior that may indicate a problem with alcohol.

Here is a sample of the CAGE Assessment Tool:

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CAGE Assessment Tool

Patient Information

• Nom:
• Date:
• Age:
• Gender:
• Examiner:

Instructions

Ask the patient the following four questions. Circle “Yes” or “No” for each response.

1. C: Have you ever felt you should Cut down on your drinking?
   • Yes / No
2. A: Have people Annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?
   • Yes / No
3. G: Have you ever felt bad or Guilty about your drinking?
   • Yes / No
4. E: Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or to get rid of a hangover (Eye-opener)?
   • Yes / No

Scoring

• Yes answers: ____ / 4

Interpretation

• 0-1: Indicates a low likelihood of alcoholism
• 2-4: Indicates a higher likelihood of alcoholism and suggests further evaluation

Comments and Recommendations

• Observation Summary:
• Recommended Interventions:
  • If the score is 2 or higher, consider a more comprehensive assessment for alcohol use disorder.
  • Discuss the results with the patient and consider referral to a specialist if necessary.
  • Provide educational resources on alcohol use and its health effects.
  • Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor changes in alcohol use and related behaviors.

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Note: This assessment tool is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers for accurate assessments and appropriate care plans.

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The CAGE Assessment Tool is a quick and effective way to screen for potential alcohol use problems, allowing for early intervention and support.