Role of first aid in the management of acute alcohol intoxication
Commonly, in patients with alcohol intoxication the first sign noticed is a cognitive impairment. Nonetheless, there are more complex pathological states hiding, that depend on type of substance, dosage, and time. Alcohol intoxication prevalence is getting increased lately, in particular with the pattern of binge drinking. It is defined as the consumption of 5 or more drinks (12 grams of ethanol each one) in a single occasion. Multiple studies advise the need to treat acute alcohol intoxication in emergency department, including vital signs stabilization, and prevention of other long-term intoxication effects. By standard protocols, in cases with blood alcohol concentration <1 g/L, no drugs are required. Severe cases with blood alcohol concentration >1 g/L, it is essential to accelerate alcohol elimination from blood. There are 2 methods that can be applied: a gastric lavage or metadoxine administration. Other recommendations include intravenous fluids to address hypoglycemia, hypotension, hypothermia and electrolyte imbalance. Vitamin complex B and C are also reported as a part of IV therapy regimen.