Alcohol-Related Emergencies
Alcohol-related emergencies are common on college campuses. Drinking a large amount of alcohol in a short period of time can lead to alcohol poisoning which requires immediate attention.
Key Signs/Symptoms:
- Confusion
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Slow or irregular breathing
- Pale or blue skin
- Loss of consciousness
First Aid
If someone has consumed too much alcohol and presents with any of the above signs or symptoms, do not leave them alone. If they are conscious and able to sit up, have them do so to prevent them from choking on possible vomit. If that is not possible or if they are unconscious, place them on their left side in the recovery position pictured below. Use a full bag or backpack behind them so that they do not roll back. Try to keep them warm, awake, and talking. Be sure that they are continuing to breathe.
When to Call 911?
Call 911 if the person has any of the above symptoms. Do not assume that the person can sleep off alcohol poisoning! It can be difficult to decide if a person is drunk enough to be seen medically, but it is better to be cautious than risk death.
What to Do if a Person Becomes Unresponsive?
- Call 911.
- If the individual is breathing, place them on their left side in recovery position.
- If the individual is not breathing, start CPR or see if anyone around you is trained in CPR. If not, the 911 operator can assist.
Drug-Related Emergencies
Drug-related emergencies are common, especially on a college campus. Do not hesitate to get help out of fear of getting in trouble. The safety of your peers and fellow students is more important!
Signs and symptoms will vary widely, but here are a few to watch out for:
- Vomiting
- Awake, but unable to talk
- Body is limp
- Pinpoint pupils, small pupils even when in an environment with light
- Slow, shallow, or irregular breathing
- Slow or irregular pulse
- Pale or clammy skin
- Lips and fingernails turn blue or purple/black
- Choking or gurgling sounds
- Loss of consciousness
First Aid
Do not leave the person alone. Have someone collect the drug/pill that they used. This will help provide medical professionals with more information so that they can better help with treatment. Prevent the person from choking on possible vomit by positioning them so that they are sitting up. If that is not possible place them on their side. Use a full bag or backpack behind them so that they do not roll back. Try to keep them warm, awake, and talking. Be sure that they are continuing to breathe.
When to Call 911?
Call 911 if the person is unable to breathe, does not have a pulse, or has any of the above symptoms. Again, do not hesitate to get help when a serious medical condition is present.
What to Do if a Person Becomes Unresponsive?
- Call 911.
- If the individual is breathing, place them on their side in recovery position.
- If the individual is not breathing, start CPR or see if anyone around you is trained in CPR. If not, the 911 operator can assist.