Attachments R, I

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2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH)

Attachments R, I

OMB: 0930-0110

⚠️ Notice: This form may be outdated. More recent filings and information on OMB 0930-0110 can be found here:

2024-04-09 - No material or nonsubstantive change to a currently approved collection
2023-10-24 - No material or nonsubstantive change to a currently approved collection

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2015 NSDUH, Supporting Statement
Attachment R – Showcard Booklet

2015 National Survey on
Drug Use and Health
SHOWCARD BOOKLET

RTI INTERNATIONAL

RTI Telephone Numbers
Tech Support .......... (877) 419-1768
Headway ................ (800) 208-7043
To reach other RTI staff, call 1-800-848-4079 then ask the
operator for the employee with whom you wish to speak.
Website Addresses
NSDUH ................... http://nsduhweb.rti.org
RTI ......................... http://www.rti.org
SAMHSA ................. http://www.samhsa.gov

Interview Troubleshooting Guide

To suppress a Hard Error involving two questions:
• Read the message box carefully.
–
–
–

If the first question listed is the one to be changed, press [Enter].
If the second question listed is the one to be changed, press the down arrow to
highlight the second question, then press [Enter].
In the rare event that neither question needs to be changed and the data entered
are correct, press [Tab] until the Suppress box is highlighted and press [Enter], then
provide an explanation for why the error was suppressed.

To edit a lengthy response:

•

With the cursor in the answer field, press the Insert key [Ins]. Use the arrow keys to
move to the precise place within the answer field to edit or add to existing text. If
necessary, record additional text in a comment box, by pressing [F8].

To correct range errors:
•
•
•

For numerical questions, read the box carefully, making note of the expected range, if
provided in the message. Press [ENTER] to clear the error, then type a new answer
within range.
For pre-coded questions, read the message box carefully, then press [ENTER] to clear
the error. Type a new answer that corresponds with a pre-coded answer choice on the
screen.
For multiple choice questions (Code All That Apply), read the message box carefully,
then press [ENTER] to clear the error. Type a new answer that corresponds with a precoded answer choice on the screen, pressing the [Space bar] between each response as
needed.

To correct date errors:
•

Review the instructions on the screen to determine the date format for the question.
For “MM-DD-YYYY” format, the date must be entered with a 2-digit month and day and
4-digit year. For “MM-YYYY” format, the date must be entered with a 2-digit month and
4-digit year. Do not enter dashes or spaces—just the number including any leading
zeros for month or day.

If an R needs assistance with an ACASI question, provide the corresponding steps above
for the problem they are having. Take care not to view the screen while assisting the R, to
ensure the confidentiality of their answers. For additional details on entering CAI responses
and troubleshooting error messages, refer to Chapter 5 in your FI Computer Manual.

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
ROCKVILLE, MD 20857

[NAME County/Parish/District] Resident at:
1234 Main Street
Anywhere, XX 12345

Dear [NAME County/Parish/District] Resident:
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is conducting a study called the National
Survey on Drug Use and Health. This study asks questions about use or non-use of alcohol,
tobacco and other substances. The study also asks about mental health and other health-related
topics relevant for all people. Since 1971, this information has been used by local, state and
national agencies for planning and providing treatment and prevention programs.
Your address was randomly chosen, through scientific methods, along with almost 200,000
others across the country. RTI International, a nonprofit organization, was selected to conduct
this study. Soon, an RTI interviewer will be in your neighborhood to give you more information.
The interviewer will carry an identification card like the example shown below.
First, the interviewer will ask a few general questions. Then the interviewer may ask one or two
members of your household to complete the full interview. It is possible no one will be chosen
to be interviewed. If anyone is chosen and completes the full interview, he or she will
receive $30 in cash.
By Federal law*, the answers you give will be kept confidential and will be used only for
statistical purposes.
Please share this information with any others in your household. Feel free to ask the interviewer
any questions you have about this study. More information is also available on the study website
at: http://nsduhweb.rti.org or you may contact us at 1-800-848-4079.
Your help is very important to this study’s success. Thank you for your cooperation.
Sincerely,

Joel Kennet, Ph.D.
National Study Director, DHHS

Ilona S. Johnson
National Field Director, RTI
You will be contacted by: ___________________________________________
Interviewer Name
*Confidentiality protected by the Confidential Information Protection and Statistical Efficiency Act of 2002 (PL 107-347)
Authorized by the U.S. Congress as part of Section 505 of the Public Health Service Act (42 USC 290aa4)
Approved by Office of Management and Budget (OMB Approval No. 0930-0110)

Study
Description
Your address is one of several in this area randomly chosen for the 2015 National
Survey on Drug Use and Health. This study, sponsored by the U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services, collects information for research and program planning by
asking about:
• tobacco, alcohol, and drug use or non-use,
• knowledge and attitudes about drugs,
• mental health, and
• other health issues.
You cannot be identified through any information you give us. Your name and address
will never be connected to your answers. Also, federal law requires us to keep all of
your answers confidential. Any data that you provide will only be used by authorized
personnel for statistical purposes according to the Confidential Information Protection
and Statistical Efficiency Act of 2002.
The screening questions take just a few minutes. If anyone is chosen, the interview will
take about an hour. You can refuse to answer any questions, and you can quit at any
time. Each person who is chosen and completes the interview will receive $30
in cash.
If you have questions about the study, call the Project Representative at 1-800-8484079. If you have questions about your rights as a study participant, call RTI’s Office of
Research Protection at 1-866-214-2043 (a toll-free number). You can also visit our
project website: http://nsduhweb.rti.org/ for more information.
Thank you for your cooperation and time.

Peter Tice, Ph.D.
Project Officer
Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Your confidentiality is protected by the Confidential Information Protection and Statistical Efficiency Act of 2002
(CIPSEA, PL 107-347). Any project staff or authorized data user who violates CIPSEA may be subject to a jail
term of up to 5 years, a fine of up to $250,000, or both.
NOTICE: Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 60 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching
existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or
any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to SAMHSA Reports Clearance Officer, Paperwork Reduction Project (09300110); Room 2-1057; 1 Choke Cherry Road, Rockville, MD 20857. An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of
information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control number for this project is 0930-0110, expiration date 09/30/16.

INTRODUCTION AND INFORMED CONSENT FOR
INTERVIEW RESPONDENTS AGE 18`+

INTRODUCE YOURSELF AND STUDY AS NECESSARY: Hello, I’m ________,
and I’m working on a nationwide study sponsored by the U.S. Public Health
Service. You should have received a letter about this study. (SHOW LEAD
LETTER, IF NECESSARY.)
READ THE BOXED INFORMATION BELOW
BEFORE STARTING EVERY INTERVIEW

This year, we are interviewing about 70,000 people across the nation. You have
been randomly chosen to take part. You will represent over 4,500 other people who
are similar to you. You may choose not to take part in this study, but no one else
can take your place. We will give you $30 when you finish the interview.
GIVE STUDY DESCRIPTION TO R IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO.
This study asks about tobacco, alcohol, and drug use or non-use, knowledge and
attitudes about drugs, mental health, and other health issues. It takes about an
hour. You will answer most of the questions on the computer, so I will not see your
answers. We are only interested in the combined responses from all 70,000 people,
not just one person’s answers. This is why we do not ask for your name and we
keep your answers separate from your address. RTI may contact you by phone or
mail to ask a few questions about the quality of my work. This is why we ask for
your phone number and current address at the end of the interview.
While the interview has some personal questions, federal law keeps your answers
private. We hope that protecting your privacy will help you to give accurate
answers. You can quit the interview at any time and you can refuse to answer any
questions.
If it is all right with you, let’s get started.
(Can we find a private place to complete the interview?)

INTRODUCTION AND INFORMED CONSENT FOR
INTERVIEW RESPONDENTS AGE 12-17
FIRST, READ THE SCRIPT BELOW AND
OBTAIN PERMISSION FROM THE PARENT/GUARDIAN

Your (AGE) year-old child has been selected to be in this study. Your child’s participation is
voluntary. This interview asks about tobacco, alcohol, and drug use or non-use, knowledge
and attitudes about drugs, mental health, and other health related issues. All of your child’s
answers will be confidential and used only for statistical purposes. Since your child will answer
most of the questions on the computer, I will never see the answers, and you are not allowed
to see them either. If it is all right with you, we’ll get started.
(Can we find a private place to complete the interview?)
ONCE PARENTAL PERMISSION HAS BEEN GIVEN, CONFIRM THE PARENT/GUARDIAN OR
ANOTHER ADULT WILL BE PRESENT FOR THE DURATION OF THE INTERVIEW
THEN, READ THE BOXED INFORMATION BELOW BEFORE STARTING EVERY INTERVIEW
WITH A 12-17 YEAR OLD

This year, we are interviewing about 70,000 people across the nation. You have been
randomly chosen to take part. You will represent over 1,000 young people in this country who
are similar to you. You may choose not to take part in this study, but no one else can take
your place. We will give you $30 when you finish the interview.
GIVE STUDY DESCRIPTION TO R IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO.
This study asks about tobacco, alcohol, and drug use or non-use, knowledge and attitudes
about drugs, mental health, and other health issues. It takes about an hour. You will answer
most of the questions on the computer, so I will not see your answers. Your answers will
never be seen by either your parents or your school. We are only interested in the combined
responses from all 70,000 people, not just one person’s answers. This is why we do not ask
for your name and we keep your answers separate from your address. RTI may contact you
by phone or mail to ask a few questions about the quality of my work. This is why we ask for
your phone number and current address at the end of the interview.
While the interview has some personal questions, federal law keeps your answers private. We
hope that protecting your privacy will help you to give accurate answers. You can quit the
interview at any time and you can refuse to answer any questions.
If it is all right with you, let’s get started.

SHOWCARD 1

MEXICAN, MEXICAN AMERICAN, MEXICANO
OR CHICANO

PUERTO RICAN

CENTRAL OR SOUTH AMERICAN

CUBAN OR CUBAN AMERICAN

DOMINICAN (FROM DOMINICAN REPUBLIC)

SPANISH (FROM SPAIN)

SHOWCARD 2

WHITE

BLACK OR AFRICAN AMERICAN

AMERICAN INDIAN OR ALASKA NATIVE
(AMERICAN INDIAN INCLUDES NORTH AMERICAN,
CENTRAL AMERICAN, AND SOUTH AMERICAN INDIANS)

NATIVE HAWAIIAN

GUAMANIAN OR CHAMORRO

SAMOAN

OTHER PACIFIC ISLANDER

ASIAN (INCLUDING: ASIAN INDIAN, CHINESE, FILIPINO,
JAPANESE, KOREAN, AND VIETNAMESE)

SHOWCARD 3

ASIAN INDIAN

CHINESE

FILIPINO

JAPANESE

KOREAN

VIETNAMESE

SHOWCARD 4

SEPTEMBER 2001 OR LATER

AUGUST 1990 TO AUGUST 2001 (INCLUDING PERSIAN
GULF WAR)

MAY 1975 TO JULY 1990

VIETNAM ERA (MARCH 1961 TO APRIL 1975)

FEBRUARY 1955 TO FEBRUARY 1961

KOREAN WAR (JULY 1950 TO JANUARY 1955)

JANUARY 1947 TO JUNE 1950

WORLD WAR II (DECEMBER 1941 TO DECEMBER 1946)

NOVEMBER 1941 OR EARLIER

SHOWCARD 5

NO SCHOOLING COMPLETED

1ST GRADE COMPLETED

2ND GRADE COMPLETED

3RD GRADE COMPLETED

4TH GRADE COMPLETED

5TH GRADE COMPLETED

6TH GRADE COMPLETED

7TH GRADE COMPLETED

8TH GRADE COMPLETED

9TH GRADE COMPLETED

10TH GRADE COMPLETED

11TH GRADE COMPLETED

REGULAR HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA

12TH GRADE, NO DIPLOMA

GED CERTIFICATE OF HIGH SCHOOL COMPLETION

SOME COLLEGE CREDIT, BUT NO DEGREE

ASSOCIATE’S DEGREE (FOR EXAMPLE, AA, AS)

BACHELOR’S DEGREE (FOR EXAMPLE, BA, BS)

MASTER’S DEGREE (FOR EXAMPLE, MA, MS, MENG, M.
ED, MSW, MBA)

DOCTORATE DEGREE (FOR EXAMPLE, PHD, EDD)

PROFESSIONAL DEGREE BEYOND A BACHELOR’S
DEGREE (FOR EXAMPLE, MD, DDS, DVM, LLB, JD)

SHOWCARD 6

SELF

FATHER (INCLUDES STEP, FOSTER,
ADOPTIVE)

SON (INCLUDES STEP, FOSTER, ADOPTIVE)

BROTHER (INCLUDES HALF, STEP, FOSTER,
ADOPTIVE)

HUSBAND

UNMARRIED PARTNER

HOUSEMATE OR ROOMMATE

SON-IN-LAW

GRANDSON

FATHER-IN-LAW

GRANDFATHER

BOARDER OR ROOMER

OTHER RELATIVE

OTHER NON-RELATIVE

SHOWCARD 7

SELF

MOTHER (INCLUDES STEP, FOSTER,
ADOPTIVE)

DAUGHTER (INCLUDES STEP, FOSTER,
ADOPTIVE)

SISTER (INCLUDES HALF, STEP, FOSTER,
ADOPTIVE)

WIFE

UNMARRIED PARTNER

HOUSEMATE OR ROOMMATE

DAUGHTER-IN-LAW

GRANDDAUGHTER

MOTHER-IN-LAW

GRANDMOTHER

BOARDER OR ROOMER

OTHER RELATIVE

OTHER NON-RELATIVE

SHOWCARD 8

PERSON IN FAMILY WITH HEALTH INSURANCE LOST
JOB OR CHANGED EMPLOYERS

LOST MEDICAID OR MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
COVERAGE BECAUSE OF NEW JOB OR INCREASE IN
INCOME

LOST MEDICAID OR MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
COVERAGE FOR SOME OTHER REASON

COST IS TOO HIGH / CAN’T AFFORD PREMIUMS

BECAME INELIGIBLE BECAUSE OF AGE OR
LEAVING SCHOOL

EMPLOYER DOES NOT OFFER COVERAGE, OR
NOT ELIGIBLE FOR COVERAGE

GOT DIVORCED OR SEPARATED FROM PERSON
WITH INSURANCE

DEATH OF SPOUSE OR PARENT

INSURANCE COMPANY REFUSED COVERAGE

DON’T NEED IT

RECEIVED MEDICAID OR MEDICAL INSURANCE
ONLY WHILE PREGNANT

SHOWCARD 9

COST IS TOO HIGH / CAN’T AFFORD PREMIUMS

EMPLOYER DOES NOT OFFER COVERAGE, OR
NOT ELIGIBLE FOR COVERAGE

INSURANCE COMPANY REFUSED COVERAGE

DON’T NEED IT

SHOWCARD 10

INCOME EARNED AT A JOB OR BUSINESS
RETIREMENT, DISABILITY, OR SURVIVOR PENSION
UNEMPLOYMENT OR WORKER’S COMPENSATION
VETERAN’S ADMINISTRATION PAYMENTS
CHILD SUPPORT
ALIMONY
INTEREST INCOME
DIVIDENDS FROM STOCKS OR MUTUAL FUNDS
INCOME FROM RENTAL PROPERTIES, ROYALTIES,
ESTATES OR TRUSTS

SHOWCARD 11

LESS THAN $1,000 (INCLUDING LOSS)

$1,000 - $1,999

$2,000 - $2,999

$3,000 - $3,999

$4,000 - $4,999

$5,000 - $5,999

$6,000 - $6,999

$7,000 - $7,999

$8,000 - $8,999

$9,000 - $9,999

$10,000 - $10,999

$11,000 - $11,999

$12,000 - $12,999

$13,000 - $13,999

$14,000 - $14,999

$15,000 - $15,999

$16,000 - $16,999

$17,000 - $17,999

$18,000 - $18,999

$19,000 - $19,999

SHOWCARD 12

$20,000 - $24,999

$25,000 - $29,999

$30,000 - $34,999

$35,000 - $39,999

$40,000 - $44,999

$45,000 - $49,999

$50,000 - $74,999

$75,000 - $99,999

$100,000 - $149,999

$150,000 OR MORE

2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health
Summary of the Questionnaire
To know more about the National Survey on Drug Use and Health and the types of questions the
interviewer will ask, included below is a summary of each section of the questionnaire. Keep in mind that
not all participants will see every question—the questions depend each person’s experiences.
Furthermore, participants can always refuse to answer any questions during the interview.
Demographics
This section, administered by the interviewer, consists of questions about the participant such as his/her
date of birth, race, educational background, and health status.
Sample Questions:
What is the highest grade or year of school you have completed?

Would you say your health in general is excellent, very good, good, fair, or poor?


Computer Practice Session
In this section, the interviewer shows the participant how to use the laptop computer and lets him/her
practice using a short practice session.
Cigarettes, Alcohol and Illicit Drugs
For most of the rest of the interview, the participant answers questions by listening to the questions over
headphones and/or reading the questions on the computer screen, and then entering responses using the
computer’s keyboard. The participant answers these questions in private, although the interviewer is
available to help with any problems using the computer. During this part of the interview, only the
participant can hear and see the questions and see his/her responses.
Tobacco Products and Alcohol
These sections include questions about whether and how often participants have used cigarettes,
smokeless tobacco, cigars, pipe tobacco, and alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, or liquor.
Sample Questions:

Have you ever smoked part or all of a cigarette?

How old were you the first time you used “smokeless” tobacco?

What is your best estimate of the number of days you drank alcohol during the past 30 days?
Illicit Drugs
The next sections ask about the participant’s use or non-use of marijuana, heroin, cocaine, hallucinogens,
inhalants, methamphetamine, and prescription pain relievers, tranquilizers, stimulants, and sedatives.
Questions about drug dependence and drug treatment are also included in these sections.
Sample Questions:

Have you ever, even once, used marijuana or hashish?

How much do people risk harming themselves physically and in other ways when they use
cocaine once a month?

Adult Social Environment and Mental Health
Participants aged 18 and older receive questions about their social experiences, including their opinions
about drug use, and in some cases, their experiences as a parent. Mental health questions cover such
topics as depression and treatment for mental health problems.
Sample Questions:

How do you feel about adults trying marijuana or hashish once or twice?

During the past 12 months, was there any time when you needed mental health treatment or
counseling for yourself but didn’t get it?

Have you ever in your life had a period of time lasting several days or longer when most of the
day you felt sad, empty, or depressed?
Youth Experiences and Mental Health
Youth aged 12-17 participating in the survey are also asked questions about their social experiences such
as: perceptions about the risks of using certain drugs; whether getting drugs is difficult or easy; feelings
about school and peers; and involvement in clubs, sports, and other extracurricular activities. The mental
health questions cover such topics as depression and treatment for mental health problems.
Sample Questions:

During the past 12 months, in how many different kinds of school-based activities, such as team
sports, cheerleading, choir, band, student government, or clubs, have you participated?

Have you ever in your life had a period of time lasting several days or longer when most of the
day you felt sad, empty, or depressed?

During the past 12 months, did you receive treatment or counseling from a private therapist,
psychologist, psychiatrist, social worker, or counselor for emotional or behavioral problems
that were not caused by alcohol or drugs?
Health Insurance and Demographic Information
In this section, the participant answers questions about school and work. Then the laptop is handed back
to the interviewer, who asks questions about health insurance and family income information to help in
analyzing the data. If necessary, a knowledgeable adult in the household may be asked to help
participants answer some of these questions.
The answers to these questions increase the government’s knowledge about health care, especially as it
may relate to drug use or treatment. This information helps in planning health care services and finding
ways to lower the costs of care.
Sample Questions:

How many hours did you work last week at all jobs or businesses?

Before taxes and other deductions, was the total combined family income during 2014 more or
less than 20,000 dollars?

Are you currently covered by private health insurance?

The interviewer is available to answer any additional questions about the National Survey on Drug Use
and Health questionnaire.

Thank you for your cooperation and help!

Enumeration Rules
PERSONS WHO ARE NOT TO BE INCLUDED ON ROSTER:



Persons under the age of 12 at the time of screening (do count them in the total SDU
Members number)



Persons who are institutionalized at the time of screening



Persons who will not live at the SDU for most of the time during the quarter

PERSONS WHO ARE TO BE INCLUDED ON ROSTER:



Persons who will live at the SDU for most of the time during the quarter (provided
they are 12 or older and not institutionalized at the time of screening)

PERSONS ON ACTIVE DUTY IN THE UNITED STATES’ MILITARY/ARMED FORCES:



Active duty personnel who live at the SDU for half or more of the quarter will be
rostered, but then will be made ineligible by the Tablet prior to selection

KNOWN CITIZENS OF FOREIGN COUNTRIES:



DO NOT INCLUDE:

—

citizens of foreign countries living on the premises of an
embassy, ministry, legation, chancellery, or consulate

—

citizens of foreign countries who consider themselves to
be just visiting or traveling in the United States
(regardless of the length of time they will be staying at the
SDU)

DO INCLUDE citizens of foreign countries who are not living on the premises of an
embassy, ministry, etc., but who are living/studying/working in the United States and
who will be living at the SDU for most of the time during the quarter.

Steps to Maximize Data Quality
This summary is not a replacement for information contained in your FI Manual, but is a listing of
some of the most crucial protocols that must be followed.
Note the FI Manual pages referenced with each key point. Keep in mind these protocols are not
the only steps necessary to follow. Use your FI Manual, Field Supervisor, and project e-mails for
information on additional steps to maximize data quality.

BE SURE YOU FOLLOW EACH OF THESE PROTOCOLS AT ALL TIMES.

SCREENING
•

Use your segment maps, and not just the address, to locate your selected
DUs. [FI Manual p. 3-21]

•

Display your ID badge when knocking on every door in your segment.
[FI Manual pgs. 4-14 and 5-1]

•

Complete screenings in-person with a resident who is 18 or older. The only
exception is in the case of a youth who is 17 years old and living independently
without a parent or guardian residing in the home. [FI Manual p. 4-15]

•

Give a Study Description to each SR. [FI Manual p. 4-16 and 4-17]

•

Obtain complete and accurate screening information, reading the screening
questions verbatim to the SR and immediately entering responses into the
Tablet. The only missing screening data should be a result of the respondent’s
refusal or inability to provide the information. [FI Manual p. 6-15]

INTERVIEW
•

Read the CAI Introduction and Informed Consent from the Showcard
Booklet to the R (choosing the appropriate version based on the respondent’s
age) before beginning the interview. Before speaking with a selected minor,
you must obtain verbal parental permission. If the R was not the SR, give
him/her a Study Description. [FI Manual pgs. 7-22, 7-23 and 7-24]

•

Make it apparent you are completing the interview in a completely
confidential and unbiased manner. [FI Manual pgs. 2-6, 2-7 and 8-1]

•

Choose an interview location that gives the respondent privacy.
[FI Manual pgs. 7-27 and 7-28]
2

INTERVIEW, CONT.
•

Do not rush the respondent. Do not tell the respondent how to make the
interview go faster. [FI Manual pgs. 8-2 and 8-3]

•

Familiarize the R with the laptop and function keys by reading the provided
script in the CAI Interview and allow the R to successfully complete the
Computer Practice on his or her own. You must always explain, offer,
AND plug in the headphones with each R. [FI Manual pgs. 8-17 through 8-20]

•

Read the interview questions exactly as they appear on the screen.
It is never acceptable to use your own words or ‘wing it’. Do not assume you
know answers from a previous conversation, question, or interview.
[FI Manual pgs. 8-2 and 8-3]

•

Hand the appropriate Showcard to the respondent when instructed on
the CAI screen. [FI Manual p. 8-13]

•

Allow your respondents to complete the ACASI portion of the interview on
their own. Never read the questions in the ACASI portion out loud to
the respondent. In cases of extreme physical impairment, it may be
necessary to enter the answers into the computer for the ACASI questions, but
always allow the ACASI recording to ‘read’ the questions and answer
categories via the headphones. [FI Manual p. 8-24]

•

Have the respondent fill out the top portion of the Quality Control
Form and allow him or her to insert the form into the envelope and seal it.
Mail the form within 24 hours of the interview. [FI Manual pgs. 8-26 through 8-27]

•

Always protect the confidentiality of your respondents. Never reveal a
respondent’s answers to anyone, including the respondent’s family
members. Resist the temptation to reveal even positive information gleaned
from an interview to parents or other household members.
[FI Manual pgs. 2-6 through 2-8]

Sampling Process Explanation
Sam ple: A representative part of a population that is studied to gain information about the whole population.
N SDUH target population: Civilian, non-institutional population aged 12 years or older residing within the 50
United States and the District of Columbia.
THE PROCESS:
RTI statisticians draw a smaller sample of the target population designed to represent the population as a
whole using probability sampling.
Step 1:
Break each state into geographic areas, called State Sampling Regions (SSRs) using population estimates
and housing unit counts from the Census Bureau.
o Number of SSRs is dependent on the population of the state, as shown in the table below.
o Each SSR within a state is expected to yield the same number of interviews. This means the more
densely populated the area, the smaller the region.
Approx.
Total
State
SSRs
Int. per
Segments
Segment
California
36
16
288
Texas, New York, and Florida
30
14
240
Illinois, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Michigan
24
13
192
Georgia, North Carolina, New Jersey, and Virginia
15
13
120
Remaining 38 States and the District of Columbia
12
10
96
Step 2:
Break each SSR up into segments.
o Scientifically selected to ensure the sample accurately represents the United States’ population.
o Each area is assigned a “probability,” or “chance,” of being selected based on the Census
population count. 8 segments selected within each SSR (2 per quarter of data collection).
Step 3:
Dwelling units (DUs) within the segments are counted and listed, and recorded on the List of DUs or Group
Quarters Listing Form.
Step 4:
From the listed DUs, specific housing units (HUs) and group quarters units (GQUs) are randomly selected.
o Selected units are called sample dwelling units (SDUs) which you contact for screening and
possible interviewing. Approximately 165,000 SDUs are randomly selected each year
Step 5:
Either 0, 1, or 2 persons (respondents) are selected for the interview using the roster information entered
into the Tablet during screening. Approximately 70,000 respondents are selected and complete the interview
each year.
o Eligibility for interview is based only on the AGE of the SDU members
o All screening data are used by RTI statisticians
Analysis:
“Sample Weighting” is used to determine how many people in the population each respondent represents.
o 1 adult - represents over 4,500 other adults
o 1 youth - represents over 1,000 other youths
FIELD INTERVIEWER’S ROLE
Maintain the integrity of the sample by:
o Using segment materials properly
o Following project procedures, including editing address and missed DU protocols
o Investigating discrepancies between the materials and what you actually see in the field
o Paying close attention to details

Sampling Process Explanation (continued)
United States

(50 States + DC)

State Sampling Regions
(SSRs)

Number of SSRs varies by State

Segments
8 per SSR

Listed Dwelling Units

Selected Dwelling Units
~ 165,000 randomly
selected per year

Respondents
1 adult=over

4,500 other adults
1 youth=over
1,000 other youths

Overview of the Screening and Interview Process
Review segment materials to locate area and plot the best
and most direct travel route to and from the area.
Prepare and mail lead letters.

Locate (using the segment materials) and contact selected DU.

Determine that the SDU is a true HU or GQU.

Complete Record of Calls (ROC) in
Tablet. Try DU later. If unit is
vacant, not a DU, or only a temporary
residence, verify with neighbor or
other knowledgeable person.
Complete verification information
and ROC.

Try to determine a good time to
return. Complete ROC.

Is anyone home?
Yes

Is an eligible SR
(resident of DU, 18+)
available?

Yes
Complete the household roster and selection process with the SR.

Any
respondents
selected?

Obtain verification information and
thank SR. Complete ROC.

Establish an appointment. Complete
ROC, including an entry about the
interview appointment.

Yes
Can the
selected R complete
interview now?
Yes
Introduce self, study, and obtain informed consent from respondent.
(Obtain parent/guardian permission before speaking to a selected youth.)

Conduct interview.
Complete end of the interview tasks, including Quality Control (QC) Form.

Give respondent cash and completed receipt. Give adult respondents & parent/
guardian of youth respondents a Q&A Brochure if not done already.

Thank respondent, complete ROC.
Transmit data to RTI.
Mail Quality Control Form to RTI within 24 hours.

Screening and Interview Tasks
When you work in the field, you will encounter a variety of situations:

Can’t screen (i.e. no one home, vacant units, SR not available, etc.)
•
•
•
•

choose case from Select Case, tap Actions, Screen DU
approach unit and discover you can’t screen
obtain verification information for codes 10, 13 and 18
complete ROC to document situation

Screen only (codes 22, 25, 26, 30)
•
•
•
•
•

choose case from Select Case, tap Actions, Screen DU
approach unit and obtain participation of eligible SR
complete screening
obtain verification information
complete ROC

Screen, then interview (31, 32 and then 70)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

•
•

choose case from Select Case, tap Actions, Screen DU
approach unit and obtain participation of eligible SR
complete screening
obtain participation/informed consent of selected respondent(s) (and permission of
parent/guardian if minor)
prepare laptop and enter QuestID from Tablet
conduct interview(s) with available selected respondent(s)
perform end of interview steps by carefully following the instructions on the screen for the
Quality Control Form and incentive procedures, providing a Q&A Brochure to each adult
respondent and the parent/guardian of each youth respondent, if not done earlier
complete ROC(s) in Tablet for screening and completed interview(s)
mail completed Quality Control Form(s) to RTI within 24 hours

Screen, make appointment for interview (codes 31, 32 and then 50)
•
•
•
•
•
•

choose case from Select Case, tap Actions, Screen DU
approach unit and obtain participation of eligible SR
complete screening
complete ROC for screening
complete ROC to document appointment for each selected respondent
prepare appointment card and give to each respondent

Interview only at appointment time or other follow-up contact
•
•
•
•
•

•
•

choose case from Select Case, review selections and roster
obtain participation/informed consent of selected respondent(s) (and permission of
parent/guardian if minor)
prepare laptop and enter QuestID from Tablet
conduct interview(s) with selected respondent(s)
perform end of interview steps by carefully following the instructions on the screen for the
Quality Control Form and incentive procedures, providing a Q&A Brochure to each adult
respondent and the parent/guardian of each youth respondent, if not done earlier
complete ROC(s) in Tablet
mail completed Quality Control Form(s) to RTI within 24 hours
7

Guidelines for Speaking with Neighbors
When speaking with neighbors, it’s important only to ask for and obtain certain information. Always
be very general and concise, and do not offer more information than is necessary.
If the neighbor is suspicious and won’t provide any information unless you tell them why you are
interested in a particular address, simply state the household has been selected to participate in a
national study. Do not name or describe the survey.
You CAN speak to a neighbor to:
1. Verify whether someone actually lives at the selected DU(s)
2. Find out a good time to find the residents at home
3. Obtain verification data if the SDU is vacant
When speaking with neighbors, you CANNOT:
1. Explain that the household has been selected to participate in the NSDUH
2. Obtain screening information for the selected DU(s)
Suggested wording to use when speaking with neighbors:
“Hello, my name is [INSERT NAME] with RTI International. I am working on a nationwide study
sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and need to speak with your
neighbor. Do you know when would be a good time to find them at home?”
OR
“Hello, my name is [INSERT NAME] with RTI International. Your neighbor has been selected to
participate in a national study and I’m having trouble catching them at home. Do you know when a
good time would be for me to find them at home?”
Suggested wording for vacancy verification:
“Hello, my name is [INSERT NAME] with RTI International. Your neighbor has been selected to
participate in a national study, but it looks like the house may be vacant. Can you tell me if someone
lives there?”

Informed Consent Reference Guide

This reference guide is not a replacement for information contained in your FI Manual, but is a listing of
crucial protocols that must be followed when obtaining informed consent. Refer to pages 7-22 through
7-26 in your FI Manual for more information on informed consent procedures.

YOUTH INFORMED CONSENT PROCEDURES:
Parental Permission:
•

First, obtain parental permission to interview the youth
o Introduce yourself to parent/guardian if not done earlier
o Read the top box of the Intro to CAI 12-17 to parent/guardian and obtain their permission
o Permission MUST be given IN PERSON

•

Once parental permission has been given, confirm the parent/guardian or another adult will be
present for the duration of the interview (not in interview room)

•

If you obtain permission from one parent/guardian who is not home when you return to do the
interview, you may only proceed if the other parent/guardian is available, grants permission for the
interview, and confirms he/she or another adult will be present for the duration of the interview

•

If the parent/guardian cannot communicate well enough in English to understand the Intro to CAI
script:

•

o If parent speaks Spanish, have the parent read the Spanish translation of the Intro to CAI
themselves (if you are not a RTI-Certified bilingual FI who could read it to them)
 If parent cannot read, the youth or another translator may read script to the parent, along
with reading the Spanish Study Description
o If language is other than Spanish, the youth or another translator may use the script and Study
Description and translate the information for the parent
o Use the youth or translator to confirm the parent/guardian or another adult will be present for the
duration of the interview and answer any questions the parent may have
Exception: If the youth is 17 years old and living independently without a parent or guardian residing
in the home (such as a college student), proceed with youth Informed Consent procedures without
parental permission, using the Intro to CAI 12-17 script

After Obtaining Parental Permission:
•

Introduce yourself to the youth (if not done earlier)

•

Read the main box of the Intro to CAI 12-17 to the youth

•

When instructed, give the youth a Study Description to read and keep

ADULT INFORMED CONSENT PROCEDURES:
•

Read the Intro to CAI 18+ to R

•

When instructed, give the R a Study Description to read and keep (if not done earlier)
o If R cannot read the Study Description themselves, you must read it to them

The Interview Process
Informed Consent Procedures
•
•

READ THE INFORMED CONSENT FOUND AT THE FRONT OF THIS BOOKLET TO RESPONDENT
If the respondent is 12 - 17 years old, obtain parental permission first

Choose the Best Interview Location
•

•

Consider the following issues:
– Privacy and ethics
– Comfort and safety
– Battery power and/or the availability of an electrical outlet
Be flexible in choosing a location, but never compromise NSDUH protocols

Setting up the Computer
•
•
•

•
•

Unpack the computer and plug it in using the extension cord if needed
Press the ON button and WAIT for the computer to boot up
While waiting, make sure you have the QuestID displayed on the Tablet, your Showcard
Booklet, a Quality Control Form and envelope, a Q&A Brochure (if not given earlier), $30 and
an Interview Incentive Receipt
Place clean headphone covers on the ear pieces of the headphones and plug the headphones
into the computer
Enter the passwords, then enter the QuestID from the Tablet to begin the interview

Conducting the Interview
•
•

•
•

Obtain informed consent (if not done earlier)
If respondent is under the age of 12 or is active in the military, the computer will automatically
complete this case (If this occurs, remember to enter a Code 79 in the Tablet and explain the
situation)
Use the Showcards as instructed
During the ACASI, be available to assist the respondent without being intrusive
 Prepare the Quality Control Form:
– Record the date and approximate interview completion time
– Print your name and FI ID # legibly
– Record the Case ID, including the A or B
– Indicate which parent (or guardian) gave permission if respondent is a minor
 Prepare the Interview Incentive Receipt:
– Record the Case ID, including the A or B
– Do not sign, date or check the box for cash acceptance until prompted by the computer


Other possible tasks include: review your ROCs and plan work for the day, re-read portions
of the FI Computer Manual or FI Manual (remove a chapter or two at a time from the
binder) complete your Data Quality Knowledge Notebook entries, re-read the Job Aids
section in the Showcard Booklet, and review materials for information to use when
obtaining cooperation

The Interview Process (continued)
•

•
•
•

Enter the QC ID and the Case ID when prompted and follow Quality Control Form procedures
– For a youth, the Quality Control Form should be completed by a parent or guardian (If no
parent is available, it is acceptable for the youth to complete the form)
– The R/parent should place the Quality Control Form into the envelope and seal it (If
R/parent refuses to complete the Quality Control Form, ask him/her to write “REFUSED”
across the top)
Give R the $30 cash, sign, date and mark the appropriate cash acceptance box on the
Interview Incentive Receipt and give the respondent the top copy
Give adult interview respondents and parent/guardian of youth respondents a Q&A Brochure
(if not done earlier)
Answer the observation questions

When Finished with the Interview
•
•

•
•
•
•

Turn off your laptop.
Pack up your equipment:
– Unplug the power cord from the computer first, unplug from the wall, then wrap them up and
place in carrying case
– Close the screen display until you hear a click, place the laptop in the case and zip closed
– Remember your Tablet, Showcard Booklet, and other papers
THANK YOUR RESPONDENT!
Enter a Code 70 in your Tablet.
Mail Quality Control Form to RTI within 24 hours of completion of the interview
Mail Interview Incentive Receipt (FS copy) to your FS each week

Possible Respondent Difficulties
•

•
•

•

Is the respondent physically or emotionally capable of participating?
– Slow the pace of the questions to see if comprehension improves
– Allow adequate time to answer
– If respondent does not seem to understand, politely discontinue the interview and speak with
your FS
Is the respondent intoxicated or under the influence of other drugs?
– Attempt to schedule another time to return
Is the respondent blind or paralyzed?
– Take the time to figure out if respondent can complete interview–each interview is precious!
– Only in these situations are you allowed to enter the responses during the ACASI portion for
the respondent (Make note of this in the FI Observation questions)
Does the respondent exhibit behaviors that suggest he or she may have difficulty reading?
– Remember that the respondent can listen to all the questions through the headphones and
answer most questions with a number

Instructions for Using the Certificate of Participation
At the end of the interview, you can give a Certificate of Participation that authenticates the
respondent’s participation in NSDUH. Youth and other interested respondents may use the
completed certificate to verify with teachers or group leaders that they participated in NSDUH, and
may then receive credit for participating in the study. Possibilities include:
•
•
•

extra credit for school
incorporating the NSDUH experience into a school project
credit towards community service hours.

It is the respondents’ responsibility to arrange to receive any possible credit. Respondents and
parents must understand that:
•
•
•

they are responsible for making arrangements for any credit
their school or group may or may not give credit; credit is not guaranteed
no advance arrangements have been made with any schools or community groups.

The certificate is worded to allow for use with respondents other than middle or high school students,
such as a young adult required to perform community service or for classes beyond high school.
However, the certificate should be used primarily with youth respondents. Adult respondents should
not receive a certificate unless they ask for acknowledgement that he/she completed the survey or
seem very interested in receiving one.
Upon completion of the interview, prepare the certificate by:
•
•

filling in the date the interview was completed
and your FI name and ID number.

To preserve confidentiality, the respondent adds his or her name at a later time.
Also provide a Question and Answer Brochure along with the certificate, as it contains additional
details and includes contact information and Website addresses where interested persons can obtain
additional information.

ROC Comments
ROC comments should be appropriate, non-judgmental, and:
•
•
•

Informative – Record appointment times, best times to return, who you talked to, or if no
adult was home, record which cars were in the driveway.
Helpful – Note relevant information for you to use in preparing to return or when discussing
the case with your supervisor. If a case gets transferred to another FI, the notes are very
important to the new FI to understand what has happened.
Concise – Explain your comments directly, leaving out unnecessary words or information.
Your comments must be easily understood by you, your FS, other FIs, and project managers.

Examples of good ROCs:
•
•
•

•

CB after 7:00 pm
2:30 Sat appt
W M 15ish said parents home after 8:00
HISP F 60s send SPAN letter

PROJECT ABBREVIATIONS
R
SR
FI
Q&A
DU

respondent (for the interview)
screening respondent
field interviewer
Q&A Brochure
dwelling unit

STANDARD ABBREVIATIONS
days of the week
F
M
B
W
HISP
SPAN
INFO
REF

(with 3 letters)
female
male
black
white
Hispanic
Spanish
information
refused

SUGGESTED HELPFUL ABBREVIATIONS
CB
APPT
AM
AFTRN
PM
NGHBR
GTKPR
WKND

call back (or come back)
appointment
morning
afternoon
evening
neighbor
gatekeeper
weekend

Refusal Reasons
Use these descriptions to help you classify refusals.
1.

Too busy/no time/did too many surveys already
The number one reason for refusals is lack of time.

Surveys/Govt. invasive/teen exposure
These people feel that the government invades their privacy too much with surveys. There
may be philosophical, political, or religious reasons for not participating in surveys. Parents
may be concerned about exposing their teen to the sensitive subject matter in the survey.

Clarify confidentiality, legitimacy, or selection
Be sure to listen carefully to what respondents are telling you—questions about the legitimacy
of the survey or how the survey guarantees confidentiality can often be explained by you on
the doorstep, if you understand their concern.

“Nothing in it for me”/uncooperative
Although rare, sometimes people will either not give a reason for their refusal or they’ll tell you
that there’s no reason for them to participate.

Gatekeeper/Parent/HH member disallow
Sometimes you encounter a refusal situation controlled by another person besides the person
selected for the interview. A spouse, parent, guardian, or another influential person in the
household may refuse for the selected individual, or deny you the ability to talk directly to the
selected person. Even if you are able to talk with the selected person, he or she may refuse
because of the other person’s opinions.

Welfare or INS concern
Persons involved with various government programs may fear that you are a welfare worker or
an immigration officer checking on their status.

Too ill/house messy/not dressed
These refusals are situational and will not generate a refusal letter. They refused because you
caught them at an awkward time.

Need to discuss with FS
In some cases, a respondent’s refusal won’t fit any of the above categories, but you are able
to gather a sense of what is preventing them from participating. With this option write a very
specific note in the refusal comment section to alert your FS. Then you can talk with him/her
about how best to handle the refusal.

Result Codes

01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09

Pending Screening Codes
No One at DU
Screening Respondent Unavailable
Neighbor Indicates Occupancy
Incapable
Language Barrier (Spanish)
Language Barrier (Other)
Refusal to Screening Questions
Unable to Locate SDU
Other

Final Screening Codes

Requires
FS Approval

Verification
Info Required

Tablet
Auto Codes

Requires
FS Approval

Verification
Info Required

Tablet
Auto Codes

Ineligible SDUs
10
13
18
19
20
22
25
26
29





Vacant
Not a Primary Residence
Not a Dwelling Unit
GQU Listed as HU
HU Listed as GQU
DU Contains Only Military Personnel
No Eligible SDU Members
In DU less than ½ of the Quarter
Listing Error













Screening Not Obtained
11
12
14
15
16
17
21
23










No One at DU after Repeated Visits
SR Unavailable after Repeated Visits
Incapable
Language Barrier (Spanish)
Language Barrier (Other)
Refusal
Denied Access to Building/Complex
Other

Screening Completed
30
31
32

No One Selected for Interview
One Selected for Interview
Two Selected for Interview

Result Codes (continued)

50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59

Pending Interview Codes
Appointment for Interview
No One at DU
Respondent Unavailable
Breakoff (Partial Interview)
Incapable
Language Barrier (Spanish)
Language Barrier (Other)
Refusal (By Respondent)
Parental Refusal for 12-17 Year Old
Other

70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79

Final Interview Codes
Interview Complete
No One at Home after Repeated Visits
Respondent Unavailable
Breakoff (Partial Interview)
Incapable
Language Barrier (Spanish)
Language Barrier (Other)
Final Refusal by Respondent
Parental Refusal for 12-17 Year Old
Other

Requires
FS Approval

Verification
Info Required

Tablet
Auto Codes

Requires
FS Approval

Verification
Info Required

Tablet
Auto Codes












Counting and Listing Abbreviations
COLORS
BG
BK
BL
BR
DK
GR
GN
LT
MED
OR
PK
RD
TN
WH
YL

ADDRESSES
Beige
Black
Blue
Brown
Dark
Grey
Green
Light
Medium
Orange
Pink
Red
Tan
White
Yellow

ADD
ALY
APT
AVE
BLK
BLVD
BLDG
CIR
CT
DRWR
DR
HWY
JCT
LN
PKWY
PL
PT
PO

OTHER/GENERAL
Address
Alley
Apartment
Avenue
Block
Boulevard
Building
Circle
Court
Drawer
Drive
Highway
Junction
Lane
Parkway
Place
Point
Post Office
(Box)
Road
Route
Street
Terrace

RD
RTE
ST
TER

DIRECTION/ORIENTATION

STRUCTURE/MATERIALS

ABV
ACR
ADJ
BCK
BEH
BTWN
BTM
E
FRT
L
N
NE
NW
RE
R
S
SE
SW
W

ALUM
BRK
BRNSTN
CDR
CBLK
CEM
LOG
RCK
SDG
STN
STU
VNY

Above
Across
Adjacent
Back
Behind
Between
Bottom
East
Front
Left
North
Northeast
Northwest
Rear
Right
South
Southeast
Southwest
West

ARCHITECTURE/BUILDING
STYLE
APT
CPCD
CLNL
CONDO
CNTP
DBLWID
DPX
RCH
RF
SPL
TRAD
TRLR
TRANS

Apartment
Cape Cod
Colonial
Condominium
Contemporary
Doublewide
Duplex
Ranch
Roof
Split Level
Traditional
Trailer
Transitional

Aluminum
Brick
Brownstone
Cedar
Cement Block
Cement
Log
Rock
Siding
Stone
Stucco
Vinyl

TYPES OF ROOFS
FLT

Flat

GBL

Gable

GMBR Gambrel
HIP

Hip

MNSD Mansard
SHGL Shingle
SPNTL Spanish Tile
TIN
Tin

ATT
BSMT
BUS
CPT
CG
CHNLNK
CHMY
CHUR
COL
COR
CO
DB
DRMR
DBL
DRWY
ELCMTR
ENT
EXT
EXTR
FEN
FLR
FDN
FRM
FR
GAR
GRD
GRV
GRND
HSE
LG
MBX
MID
MI
PKT
PCH
PVT
RR
RSTR
RM
SCRN
SHK
SHUT
SD
STR
STY
TR
UC
VAC
VER
VEST
WIN
WD

Attached
Basement
Business
Carport
Cattleguard
Chainlink
Chimney
Church
Column
Corner
County
Doorbell
Dormer
Double
Driveway
Electric Motor
Entrance
Exit
Exterior
Fence
Floor
Foundation
Frame
From
Garage
Guard
Gravel
Ground
House
Large
Mailbox
Middle
Mile
Picket
Porch
Private
Railroad
Restaurant
Room
Screen/Screened
Shake
Shutters
Side Door
Store
Story
Trim
Under
Construction
Vacant
Veranda
Vestibule
Window
Wood

Editing Address Protocol
When to Edit an Address
Editing SDU addresses should not be a common task. An address should only be edited if the
physical address is missing or incorrect, such as when only a description of the SDU is provided.
Before editing an address, first confirm you are at the correct selected dwelling unit. To do this, use a
combination of project resources, including the handwritten List of DUs, block listing maps, and the
address or description in your Tablet. If you are confident you are at the correct DU but the address
is incorrect, you should consult the Editing Address Protocol chart. It will guide you on the steps to
follow.
When you edit an address, there are two additional steps you must take to complete the process.
First, you must enter a note in the Record of Calls explaining the reason for the edit. Second, you
should notify your FS of the edit. Your FS must update their copy of the segment materials with the
edit, and in many cases notify RTI’s Sampling Department to update the project sampling frame.
Never make edits to an address which creates a duplicate of an address already listed on the
original List of DUs. Enter a note in the Record of Calls describing the situation and address
discrepancy, and then obtain permission from your FS and Sampling before making the edit.
Carefully checking the original List of DUs before making an edit will ensure no duplication occurs.
After reviewing the Editing Address Protocol chart, if you are unsure whether an address should be
edited or the appropriate procedures to follow, enter detailed notes about the situation in the ROCs
and contact your FS promptly for assistance.
When NOT to Edit an Address
In order to maintain the integrity of the sample, there are specific situations when you should not edit
an address. These situations are listed as “Improper” in the third column of the Editing Address
Protocol chart.
For example, addresses must never be edited due to screening on the incorrect line or at the wrong
dwelling unit. Always double-check the address at the top of the Tablet screen and consult your
segment materials to prevent this type of error.
Also, do not change an address or description to a Post Office Box, but instead enter any PO Box
information in the Record of Calls.
Lastly, do not edit addresses to change abbreviations to full spellings, such as “Dr.” to “Drive,” or from
full spellings to abbreviations, such as “Boulevard” to “Blvd.”
Reminder:
Always refer to the chart:


when deciding whether or not to edit an address, and



to be certain all appropriate procedures have been completed when editing an address.
18

EDITING ADDRESS PROTOCOL
REMINDER: Always review your segment maps, original list of dwelling units, and Tablet information before
editing SDU addresses.
Scenario

Description of Situation

Proper or
Improper to Edit

Appropriate FI Action

Description edited to a street
address

Proper

Check handwritten list of DUs, if address is not on list,
delete description; enter street address in Tablet;
proceed with screening; enter notes in ROCs; notify FS

Street name spelling corrected or
drive/avenue/street/etc. corrected

Proper

Edit address in Tablet; proceed with screening; enter
notes in ROCs; notify FS

Proper

Edit address in Tablet; proceed with screening; enter
notes in ROCs; notify FS

Proper

Check handwritten list of DUs, if address is not on list,
edit address in Tablet; proceed with screening; enter
notes in ROCs; notify FS

Correction of one SDU address
due to 911/U.S. Postal Service/
local government address
revisions
Correction of listing error for one
SDU (includes edits to street/apt.
number)

Adding apt. numbers to
differentiate between added units
in a SDU or on SDU property

Proper

Check handwritten list of DUs, if address is not on list,
edit address in Tablet; proceed with screening; enter
notes in ROCs; notify FS

City, state, or zip code corrected

Proper

Edit address in Tablet; proceed with screening; enter
notes in ROCs; notify FS

Within controlled access
buildings/complexes, edits to
addresses for multiple units
originally gained through "blind"
listing or listing by buzzer/mailbox

Proper (with prior
approval from FS)

Notify FS; if approved by FS, edit address in Tablet;
proceed with screening; enter notes in ROCs

Complete street name change

Proper (with prior
approval from FS and
Sampling)