After Penn State Hazing Death, Dr. Oz Shares Warning Signs Of Dangerous Drinking | TODAY

Key takeaways

• Distinguish ordinary drunkenness from a medical emergency. Staggering, poor coordination, saying things someone may regret, and vomiting can occur with drunkenness—but severe alcohol intoxication can become life-threatening.
• Call 911 immediately if someone:
  • Cannot be awakened or made responsive.
  • Has a seizure or uncontrolled involuntary movements.
  • Breathes slowly or irregularly—fewer than about 8 breaths per minute—or has a pause of more than 10 seconds between breaths.
• Don’t dismiss unresponsiveness. Dr. Oz describes a sternum rub as a medical way to check whether someone can be roused. Failure to respond is an emergency sign and should prompt a 911 call and medical attention.
• Understand the risks of “backpacking.” The term refers to putting a backpack on an intoxicated person to keep them from rolling onto their back. The segment notes that side positioning may be preferable to lying on the back, but stresses that it does not make dangerous drinking safe. Vomit can be inhaled into the lungs, which can be lethal.
• Alcohol itself can be fatal. The segment warns that danger is not limited to accidents involving cars or machinery; severe intoxication can also cause coma, breathing failure, or death.

Presenters and sources

• Dr. Mehmet Oz, host of The Dr. Oz Show
• TODAY interviewer/host (unnamed in the subtitles)
• Parents and other people heard in a recorded clip (unnamed)