Being around people drinking means you might need to care for someone who's had too much. If they show signs of alcohol poisoning, get immediate medical attention. Otherwise, time is the only cure. Here’s how you can help keep them safe and comfortable.
Caring for Someone Who's Drunk
1. Assess Their Condition
The first step in helping someone who’s had too much to drink is to understand their condition. Ask them how much they’ve had to drink and over what period. If they’re coherent, also inquire about other substances they may have taken and when they last ate. This information can be crucial if medical help is needed.
Example Questions:
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"How are you feeling?"
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"Do you know how much you’ve had to drink?"
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"When did you last eat anything?"
If they’re incoherent and unable to understand you, they may have alcohol poisoning. In such cases, seek medical help immediately.
Signs of Possible Drugging:
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If someone claims they've only had a couple of drinks but seems extremely intoxicated, they might have been drugged. This situation also requires immediate medical attention.
2. Explain Your Actions
When dealing with a drunk person, it’s essential to communicate your intentions clearly. Let them know what you’re doing and why to prevent confusion and resistance.
Example Statements:
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"Hey, are you all right? I just wanted to check on you. Is it okay if I sit here and put my arm around you?"
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"I'm right here if you need anything. Let me help you keep your hair out of the way."
If they’re unresponsive, seek medical help immediately.
3. Check for Alcohol Poisoning
Alcohol poisoning can be life-threatening. Here are signs to watch for:
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Confusion or disorientation
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Lack of coordination or inability to walk
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Vomiting or nausea
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Slow breathing (fewer than 8 breaths per minute)
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Slow heart rate
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Cold, clammy skin that's pale or bluish
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Low body temperature or chills
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Seizures
If any of these symptoms are present, call for medical help right away.
4. Take Them to Safety
Ensure the person is in a safe place where they can’t hurt themselves or others. If you’re out in public, try to find someone who knows them and can take responsibility for their safety. Never let a drunk person drive. Use a cab or ride-sharing service to get them home safely.
At Restaurants or Bars:
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Alert the staff that the person may need assistance and stay with them until you're confident they’re being taken care of.
Helping Them Sleep It Off
1. Lay Them on Their Side
If the person is ready to sleep, lay them on their side in the recovery position. This helps keep their airway clear and prevents choking if they vomit. Use pillows to support them and keep them from rolling over.
2. Keep Them Warm
Alcohol lowers body temperature, so cover them with a blanket to keep them warm.
Note:
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If they kick the blanket off or insist they don’t want it, don’t force it on them. Just monitor for signs of them feeling cold.
3. Monitor Their Sleep
Keep an eye on their breathing and overall condition. If breathing becomes irregular or they show other signs of alcohol poisoning, seek medical help immediately. You don’t have to stay in the same room, but keep their door open to hear any signs of distress.
4. Watch for Alcohol Poisoning Signs
Remember the acronym "MUST HELP":
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Mental confusion
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Unresponsive
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Snoring or gasping for air
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Throwing up
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Hypothermia
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Erratic breathing
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Loss of consciousness
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Pale or bluish skin
If they exhibit more than three of these signs, call an ambulance immediately.
Sobering Them Up
1. Stop Alcohol Consumption
If the person is already very drunk, any more alcohol will put them at greater risk of alcohol poisoning and extend the time it takes to sober up. Be firm but kind in refusing to give them more alcohol.
Example Statement:
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"Listen, I think you’ve had too much, and I’m a little worried. Why don’t you call it a night?"
If they become belligerent, distract them with a non-alcoholic drink or a favorite song or movie.
2. Give Them Water
If they’re alert and not nauseous, drinking water can help dilute the alcohol in their bloodstream and rehydrate them. Sports drinks can also help replenish electrolytes.
3. Feed Them Light Snacks
Offer light snacks like bread, crackers, or pretzels. These are easy on the stomach and can help absorb alcohol. Avoid heavy or greasy foods that can cause nausea.
4. Avoid Stimulants
Don’t give them coffee or other stimulants. These can further dehydrate them and slow down the sobering process. If you’re worried about them falling asleep, a small amount of coffee might help, but balance it with water.
5. Don’t Force Vomiting
Vomiting won’t reduce the alcohol already in their bloodstream and can lead to further dehydration. However, if they feel the need to vomit naturally, be there to support them and ensure they don’t choke.
6. Encourage Sleep
The best way to sober up is time, often best spent sleeping. Create a calm environment to help them rest. Even a full night’s sleep might not be enough, depending on how much they’ve drunk.
Conclusion
Helping someone who's had too much to drink is about ensuring their safety and comfort while their body processes the alcohol. From assessing their condition to monitoring them while they sleep, your priority should be their well-being. Remember, if in doubt, always seek professional medical help.
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