Substance Abuse and Emergency Response

Flashcards about substance abuse, how drugs affect the body, classifying drugs, factors influencing drug use, helping friends with drug problems, and the DRSABCD emergency response plan.

Substance Abuse

The harmful or hazardous use of legal or illegal drugs, including alcohol, tobacco, and other substances, leading to harm to health, relationships, or responsibilities and potentially addiction.

Short-Term Effects of Drugs

Occur immediately or within hours of use and may include mood changes, impaired judgment, nausea, increased heart rate, or hallucinations, varying by drug type and amount.

Long-Term Effects of Drugs

Develop with frequent or long-term drug use, potentially causing organ damage, mental health issues, addiction, poor memory/brain function, and social/legal problems.

Stimulants

Drugs that speeds up the central nervous system. Examples: Caffeine, nicotine, cocaine, ecstasy.

Depressants

Drugs that slow down the central nervous system. Examples: Alcohol, cannabis, benzodiazepines.

Hallucinogens

Drugs that distort perception and mood. Examples: LSD, magic mushrooms, ketamine.

Risk Factors for Drug Use

Factors that increase the likelihood of drug use, such as peer pressure, family history, mental health issues, boredom, or exposure to drug use in media/community.

Protective Factors Against Drug Use

Factors that reduce the likelihood of drug use, such as strong family/peer support, positive self-esteem, good communication, involvement in activities, and awareness of drug risks.

Helping a Friend with Drug Problems

Stay calm, listen without judging, encourage them to talk to a trusted adult, and help them find resources like a school counselor or helpline.

DRSABCD

Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR, Defibrillation. Used in a medical emergency.

D in DRSABCD

Check for danger to yourself or others.

R in DRSABCD

Check if the person is conscious (COWS: Can you hear me? Open your eyes. What’s your name? Squeeze my hand.).

S in DRSABCD

Call 000.

A in DRSABCD

Check and clear their airway.

B in DRSABCD

Look, listen, and feel for breathing.

C in DRSABCD

Start CPR (30 compressions: 2 breaths) if not breathing.

D (Defibrillation) in DRSABCD

Use an AED if available.