Reasons Why Trauma Surgeons Fail to Screen for Alcohol Problems

Abstract
THE NATIONAL Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has suggested that trauma surgeons should become more involved in the identification and referral of trauma patients with alcohol problems for counseling and not just in the treatment of their injuries.1 This recommendation is based on increasing evidence that demonstrates the effectiveness of relatively brief alcohol interventions that are capable of being conducted within the time, staffing, and financial constraints typical of a busy trauma center.2-10