What is an important aspect of emergency treatment for a patient with a drug or alcohol emergency?

Maintaining the patient's body temperature is a crucial aspect of emergency treatment for a patient experiencing a drug or alcohol emergency. Many substances can lead to alterations in thermoregulation; for example, alcohol can cause hypothermia due to vasodilation and impaired judgment, leading individuals to not dress appropriately for the weather or to remain in colder environments. In other cases, drugs can cause hyperthermia due to increased metabolic demands or agitation.

In either scenario, the emergency medical technician (EMT) must ensure the patient is kept within a normal temperature range to prevent further complications such as hypothermia or heat stroke. Providing appropriate insulation or cooling measures can stabilize the patient's condition and effectively support various other therapeutic interventions. This focus on temperature regulation is fundamental to the overall approach in managing patients presenting with intoxication or overdose.