Where an individual recognises that such assessments suggest they are at risk of harmful
alcohol consumption and associated health and social problems, the nurse is provided with a
‘teachable moment’. Teachable moments are naturally occurring events in health encounters
when individuals are open to suggestions for behavioural change. In this instance, the nurse
can provide ‘alcohol brief advice’ as suggested by Mably and Jones (2010). This is described as
a short, evidence-based, structured discussion between the nurse and patient that focuses on
alcohol consumption. It is aimed at motivating and supporting individuals to consider, and where
appropriate, plan changes to drinking patterns to reduce the risk of harm. The key to such
discussions is to ensure individuals feel they are being invited to think about the topic rather than pressurised or criticised when confronting current drinking patterns.