Dynamo Training Solutions Simple Guide to: Alcohol Poisoning

What is alcohol poisoning?

If a person drinks too much alcohol the person may suffer from alcohol poisoning. When a person

drinks too much alcohol, the nervous system becomes depressed and stops working properly- this

particularly affects the brain. This can mean that an individual’s mental and physical features

become weaker, and the person may become unresponsive.

What are the signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning?

•  A strong smell of alcohol

•  The face may be reddened or moist

•  A reduced level of response

•  Full bounding pulse

•  Deep noisy breathing

Later signs and symptoms include:

•  A weak, but rapid pulse

•  Dilated pupils that react poorly to light

•  Shallow breathing

•  Unresponsiveness

What first aid action should be taken?

1) If you believe that an individual has alcohol poisoning you must reassure them, cover them

with a coat or blanket and keep them warm

2) Check the casualty for any possible injuries- especially head injuries

3) Check for signs of other medical conditions. The smell of alcohol on a casualty who is

unresponsive may disguise other medical conditions such as a head injury, heart attack,

stroke, and hypoglycaemia. If you are unsure about how serious their condition is, you must

call 999 or 112 for emergency help.

4) Place the casualty in the recovery position. This is so the casualty does not choke on any

vomit and keeps their airway open. It is important that you do not try to make the casualty

sick

5) Monitor the casualty’s level of response until they recover or until a responsible friend of the

casualty takes over their care. If the casualty condition deteriorates you must contact the

emergency service on 999 or 112.

6) If the casualty does become unresponsive at any point, check the casualty’s breathing and

be prepared to provide CPR.

Dynamo Training Solutions simple guide to alcohol poisoning.

Dynamo Training Solutions provide comprehensive training on all first-aid-related topics. We deliver

first aid training courses throughout London, Kent, and the Southeast. Dynamo Training Solutions Simple Guide to Alcohol Poisoning is part of the Dynamo Training Solutions simple guide to first aid series.