HIV Testing and Brief Alcohol Intervention for Young Drinkers in the Emergency Department

Addressing HIV Risk in Young Unhealthy Alcohol Drinkers in the Emergency Department With Rapid HIV Testing and Brief Intervention

The purpose of this study was to determine whether a brief counseling intervention coupled with rapid HIV testing was feasible and effective at decreasing alcohol consumption and sexual risk behaviors among young, unhealthy drinkers presenting to the Emergency Department.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18-40 years old;
• engaged in at least one sexual risk behavior in past 90 days;
• alcohol consumption greater than NIAAA guidelines for at-risk drinking;
• unknown or negative HIV status and willing to be tested;
• able to provide contact information for follow-up;
• able to provide written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• known HIV positive status;
• medically or psychiatrically unstable.