National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) DOT Practice Exam

For a driver exhibiting signs of emotional distress during a medical exam, what is the best response?

1. Provide a "CAGE" questionnaire.

2. Disqualify the driver and refer to a mental health professional.

3. Certify for 3 months.

4. Require a skill performance evaluation.

The correct answer is: Disqualify the driver and refer to a mental health professional.

For a driver exhibiting signs of emotional distress during a medical exam, the most appropriate response is to disqualify the driver and refer them to a mental health professional. This approach prioritizes the safety of the driver and others on the road. Emotional distress can severely impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely, affecting judgment, reaction times, and overall mental clarity. By disqualifying the driver temporarily, it ensures that they do not pose a risk to themselves or others until they can receive proper evaluation and treatment from a mental health professional. This step is crucial in promoting road safety and addressing any potential underlying issues that may need attention. The other options may not adequately address the severity of emotional distress. For example, administering a "CAGE" questionnaire is typically used for alcohol abuse screening and may not be appropriate in this instance. Certifying the driver for a short duration like three months does not address the potential risks if their condition is not resolved. Requiring a skill performance evaluation might assess driving capabilities, but it does not address the emotional health aspect directly, which is critical in this situation. Therefore, referring the driver to mental health resources is the most responsible and effective action.