Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Practice Exam

What is the primary goal of screening a client with a known substance abuse disorder?

1. Get rid of those clients with serious problems

2. Determine a best initial treatment course

3. Discover any dual diagnoses

4. Evaluate the likely length of treatment needed

The correct answer is: Determine a best initial treatment course

Determining the best initial treatment course for a client with a known substance abuse disorder is crucial for effective intervention. This primary goal helps to ensure that the treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s specific needs, considering factors such as the type of substance used, the severity of the disorder, and any co-occurring mental health issues. By establishing a clear understanding of the client’s situation, healthcare providers can implement strategies that are more likely to lead to successful outcomes and facilitate the client’s path to recovery. Additionally, while identifying dual diagnoses can be an important aspect of treatment planning and understanding a client's overall mental health, it is a secondary consideration compared to defining the initial treatment pathway. Similarly, evaluating the length of treatment needed is important, but it typically relies on the initial treatment course, which is derived from the initial assessment and screening process. Thus, the primary focus remains on determining the most appropriate treatment plan to address the client’s immediate needs.