Which of the following Walk and Turn cues can be scored in the instruction stage?

The cue that can be scored in the instruction stage of the Walk and Turn test is when the individual starts walking too soon. This aspect of the test is crucial because it measures the subject's ability to follow directions and listen carefully before beginning the physical tasks.

During the instruction phase, participants are directed to stand heel to toe while listening to the officer’s explanation of how to perform the walk. If they begin walking before receiving the command, it demonstrates a lack of compliance with the instructions, which is an indicator of potential impairment. This behavior disrupts the testing process and suggests an inability to follow basic commands, which can be a sign of intoxication or impairment.

The other cues listed are assessed during the walking phase of the test rather than the instruction stage. Steps out of order, fails to walk heel to toe, and cannot maintain balance are all evaluated once the subject begins walking, which is after the instructions have been given and properly understood. Therefore, the only cue that can be scored during the instruction stage is related to starting walking prematurely.