DRE Field Sobriety & Vital Signs Flashcards

In the DRE 12-step protocol, the 'dark room examination' is conducted primarily to assess what?

Answer: Pupil size and reaction to light

The dark room examination allows the DRE to measure pupil size under three lighting conditions (dark, indirect, direct light) to identify drug-related abnormalities.

What pupil size range (in millimeters) is generally considered normal under room light conditions for a DRE evaluation?

Answer: 3–6.5 mm

Normal pupil size under room light is approximately 3 to 6.5 mm; sizes outside this range may indicate drug influence on the autonomic nervous system.

The Walk-and-Turn test is classified as a 'divided attention' test because it requires the subject to do what simultaneously?

Answer: Follow instructions while performing physical tasks

Divided attention tests require processing verbal instructions while simultaneously executing physical movements, mimicking the cognitive demands of safe driving.

Which DRE vital sign finding is most consistent with opiate/narcotic analgesic use?

Answer: Depressed pulse, normal or low temperature

Narcotic analgesics cause CNS and cardiovascular depression, manifesting as a slowed pulse rate and often normal to subnormal body temperature.

During the finger-to-nose test in the DRE protocol, which finding is specifically noted as significant?

Answer: The angle and accuracy of each finger-to-nose touch

The DRE records which finger is used, which nostril is touched, and accuracy of contact, as missing or imprecise touches indicate neurological impairment.

Respiration rate above 20 breaths per minute (tachypnea) in a DRE evaluation is most commonly associated with which drug category?

Answer: CNS stimulants

CNS stimulants increase sympathetic activity and metabolic rate, which elevates respiratory rate along with pulse and blood pressure.