Which questionnaire might a nurse consider using to evaluate alcohol use in an older adult?

The CAGE questionnaire is specifically designed to screen for potential alcohol use problems. It consists of four simple questions that are insightful in identifying individuals who may need a more comprehensive assessment for alcohol dependence or abuse. This tool is particularly effective in a healthcare setting, especially for older adults who might not readily disclose their alcohol consumption patterns.

Using the CAGE questionnaire allows nurses to initiate conversations about alcohol use with their patients in a way that is non-threatening and straightforward. The sensitivity and specificity of this tool make it a valuable option for healthcare professionals aiming to assess the potential risks associated with alcohol consumption in this age group, who may have different drinking patterns and risks compared to younger populations.

In contrast, the other options serve different purposes. The Geriatric Depression Scale focuses on assessing levels of depression among older adults, while the BEHAVE-AD assessment scale is used for measuring the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. The Mini-Mental State Examination is a cognitive assessment tool that evaluates various aspects of mental functioning. Each of these assessments has its specific focus and is not designed to screen for alcohol use, highlighting why the CAGE questionnaire is the most appropriate choice in this scenario.