Role of nurses in alcohol screening and treatment interventions.

Alcohol consumption can be a positive factor in many people's social lives, but for some individuals it may cause associated harm to their health. Alcohol consumption can also place a burden on healthcare services. This article explores the trends of alcohol use, primarily in the UK, and outlines the related health effects. The author reviews the screening and brief interventions that non-specialist nurses can use, in partnership with patients, where they have concerns regarding patients' alcohol use and its potentially harmful health effects.