Signs of Intoxication Flashcards

At what stage of intoxication does a person typically experience euphoria and lowered inhibitions?

Answer: At low to moderate BAC levels, in the early stages of drinking

Euphoria and lowered inhibitions typically occur at low to moderate BAC levels during the early stages of drinking. As BAC continues to rise, these effects give way to impaired coordination, confusion, and eventually sedation.

What is 'alcohol poisoning' and when should it be suspected?

Answer: It is a potentially fatal condition caused by consuming a dangerous amount of alcohol, suspected when a person is unconscious, breathing irregularly, or has cold/clammy skin

Alcohol poisoning is a serious and potentially fatal condition resulting from consuming a dangerous amount of alcohol. Warning signs include unconsciousness, slow or irregular breathing, vomiting while unconscious, hypothermia, and seizures.

How does the rate of drinking affect intoxication?

Answer: Drinking quickly raises BAC faster because the body cannot metabolize the alcohol as fast as it is consumed

Drinking quickly raises BAC faster because the alcohol enters the bloodstream faster than the liver can metabolize it (approximately one standard drink per hour). Rapid consumption leads to a higher peak BAC.

What is a 'standard drink' in Canada?

Answer: A drink containing approximately 17.05 mL (0.6 oz) of pure alcohol

In Canada, a standard drink contains approximately 17.05 mL (0.6 oz) of pure alcohol, equivalent to about 341 mL (12 oz) of 5% beer, 142 mL (5 oz) of 12% wine, or 43 mL (1.5 oz) of 40% spirits.

Why might a patron show delayed signs of intoxication?

Answer: Alcohol absorption can be delayed by food in the stomach, meaning signs may appear later as alcohol is gradually absorbed

Food in the stomach can delay alcohol absorption, meaning a patron may not show signs of intoxication immediately but may become noticeably impaired later as the alcohol is gradually absorbed into the bloodstream.

What is the server's responsibility if they suspect a patron is using drugs in combination with alcohol?

Answer: Stop serving alcohol immediately as the combination can be extremely dangerous and unpredictable

If a server suspects drug and alcohol combination, they should stop serving alcohol immediately. The combination of drugs and alcohol can be extremely dangerous and unpredictable, greatly increasing the risk of overdose or medical emergency.