Alcohol screening instruments and psychiatric evaluation outcomes in military aviation personnel.

Abstract

The psychometrically sophisticated CAL-R is sensitive, specific, and has good negative predictive value, although its use requires a psychologist and its availability is limited. The SAAST and AUDIT can be administered by a flight surgeon or aviation medical examiner (AME). Given the higher sensitivity of the SAAST it may be the most beneficial if administered first. The AUDIT can be used as a follow-up diagnostic test given its higher specificity.