adolescent substance use screening

Full Definition

Evidence-based screening protocols designed to identify and assess substance use in adolescent patients through validated questionnaires and clinical interviews. These screenings evaluate not only current use patterns but also risk factors, family history, and psychosocial impacts of substance use. The process requires establishing trust and confidentiality while determining appropriate interventions ranging from brief counseling to referral for specialized treatment.

Usage

Usage note: Use 'substance use' rather than 'substance abuse' to reduce stigma and improve disclosure.

In Context

• "Routine adolescent substance use screening revealed concerning patterns of weekend binge drinking." — Annual physical examination
• "The clinic implemented universal adolescent substance use screening for all patients aged 12 and older." — Quality improvement report