Reference no: EM132351987

Carry out Comprehensive Substance Misuse Assessment

Learning outcomes

1 Understand the signs and implications of a range of substance misuse-related problems

1.1 Describe the different substances which individuals might use, how they are used and their likely effects

1.2 Identify challenges often associated with substance misuse e.g. significant psychiatric and/or physical co-morbidity, children at risk, social problems, legal problems

1.3 Explain ways of keeping knowledge about substances and indications of substance misuse up to date

1.4 Describe the jargon used by substance misusers in the locality

2 Understand the range of substance misuse services and interventions

2.1 Describe the range of treatment interventions and assessment services available in the locality

2.2 Describe the eligibility criteria and protocols for accessing services in the locality

2.3 Explain how to respond to individuals who do not want to be referred to other services

3 Prepare for comprehensive substance misuse assessment

3.1 Obtain information on individuals from previous assessments carried out by other services in line with protocols

3.2 Establish any particular needs of the individual which will need to be taken into account during the assessment

3.3 Fully and accurately record arrangements for the assessment in line with the organisation’s procedures

4 Assess possible risks to the individual

4.1 Demonstrate how to assess the risk to individuals from their substance misuse and/or co-existent problems

4.2 Explain the importance of regularly reviewing risk assessments

4.3 Demonstrate that the risk-assessment takes account of the individual’s needs and the legal duty of care to the individual and others

5 Assess individuals’ substance misuse and related problems

5.1 Involve the individual in the assessment as far as possible, according to their capability

5.2 Assess the nature of the individual’s substance misuse problems and other problems

5.3 Assess the individual’s understanding of services available and readiness to engage in a treatment programme

5.4 Conduct the assessment in line with locally agreed criteria and using standardised documentation

5.5 Manage challenging, abusive, aggressive or chaotic behaviour

5.6 Seek clear conclusions from the assessment to inform the development of a comprehensive care plan

5.7 Explain how to involve adults with parental responsibility in the assessment and referral of children and young people

5.8 Describe how to take account of a child or young person’s age and maturity when involving them in assessment

5.9 Describe the principles of the relevant legislation

6 Follow up the assessment process

6.1 Keep accurate, legible and complete records of the assessment

6.2 Continue assessment at appropriate intervals once the individual has commenced a care plan

6.3 Provide individuals with accurate and clear information on systems for making complaints about the assessment system and appealing on the decisions

6.4 Ensure consistency of approach with other members of the substance misuse service team