Impairment Recognition Flashcards
7 cards from real DRE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Impairment Recognition flashcards as text
A DRE evaluates a subject with track marks on the arms, pinpoint pupils (2 mm), pulse of 55 bpm, and shallow breathing. The DRE should form an opinion consistent with:
Answer: Narcotic Analgesic influence
Track marks, pinpoint pupils, low pulse, and respiratory depression are classic indicators of narcotic analgesic (opioid) impairment.
What is the PRIMARY purpose of the preliminary examination (Step 3) in the DRE protocol?
Answer: To rule out medical conditions that may mimic drug impairment
The preliminary examination ensures the subject's condition is not caused by a medical emergency or injury rather than drug impairment.
During a DRE exam, a subject exhibits hallucinations, extremely dilated pupils, elevated pulse, and a heightened sensory experience. Which drug category is MOST likely?
Answer: Hallucinogens
Hallucinogens produce pronounced dilation, elevated pulse, sensory distortions, and hallucinations as primary effects.
Which statement BEST describes the Lack of Convergence (LOC) test in the DRE evaluation?
Answer: It checks whether both eyes can track together to a near point
The LOC test assesses whether the eyes can converge (cross) toward a stimulus moved close to the nose; failure indicates CNS depressant or PCP influence.
Body temperature of 101.5°F (38.6°C) is MOST consistent with impairment from which drug category?
Answer: CNS Stimulants
CNS stimulants increase metabolic activity and can cause hyperthermia, reflected in elevated body temperature.
A DRE conducting the finger-to-nose test notes the subject misses the tip of the nose four out of six attempts and uses the pad of the finger instead of the tip. This finding is MOST indicative of:
Answer: CNS or psychomotor impairment
Repeated misses and improper technique on the finger-to-nose test indicate divided attention and psychomotor impairment consistent with CNS-affecting substances.
Under the DRE program, which agency provides national oversight and maintains the certification standards for Drug Recognition Experts?
Answer: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)
NHTSA provides national oversight of the DRE program, establishing training standards and certification requirements in partnership with IACP.