Alcohol Poisoning is the name given to the condition resulting from the excessive consumption of alcohol in relation to the bodies ability to metabolize the substance.  Because alcohol is a depressant, the body's major functions are affected and large amounts of alcohol could cause the respiratory system to slow to the point that a person could stop breathing.  A person suffering from alcohol poisoning needs immediate medical attention.

Steps to Deal with Alcohol Poisoning

1.        Wake the person up.  Call their name; Shake them; Pinch their skin.  If they don’t respond.  Get help!

2.        Turn and keep the person on their side so that if they get sick they will not choke on their vomit.

3.        Check the person’s skin.  If his/her skin is pale or bluish or is cold or clammy, get help!

4.        Check the person’s breathing.  If it is irregular, or too slow/shallow (less than 8 breaths per minute or more than 10 seconds between breaths), get help!

If you discover any one of the above problems, stay with the person and call 9-1-1.  It isimportant to contact emergency services quickly.  Do not try to transport a student that ispossibly suffering from alcohol poisoning in a personal vehicle.  The ambulance has trained personnel and access to medical equipment needed to treat the patient on the way to thehospital.