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

What is the appropriate action for a driver who reports a history of frequent headaches and is using over-the-counter medication?

1. Certify the driver for one year

2. Provide a 3-month temporary certification

3. Disqualify the driver until headaches are resolved

4. Counsel the driver on medication effects

The correct answer is: Counsel the driver on medication effects

Counseling the driver on medication effects is a vital step to ensure safety on the road, especially when there is a history of frequent headaches and the use of over-the-counter medications. Understanding how these medications can influence alertness, coordination, and reaction times is essential for a driver’s capacity to operate a vehicle safely. Many over-the-counter medications can have side effects that might impair the driver, such as drowsiness or reduced cognitive function. Providing counseling allows the driver to become more aware of the potential impacts of their medication, enabling them to make informed decisions about whether it is appropriate to drive. This approach promotes a proactive stance on driver health and safety instead of making a blanket decision regarding their certification or disqualification. By emphasizing education about medication effects, the driver can be more mindful of their condition and how it may affect their driving ability, which benefits overall road safety.