Which groups may be at higher risk of alcohol-related harm and why servers should be extra vigilant?

Which groups may be at higher risk of alcohol-related harm and why servers should be extra vigilant?

• A. Only elite athletes; to maintain performance.
• B. All patrons equally; no extra vigilance.
• C. Infants; to keep them safe.
• D. Young adults, people with certain medications or medical conditions, pregnant individuals; they may be more susceptible to harm or less able to manage intake.

Answer: (D)

Certain groups are more vulnerable to alcohol’s effects, so servers must be extra vigilant. Pregnant individuals should not be encouraged to drink because alcohol can harm the developing fetus and lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. People taking certain medications or having medical conditions may experience dangerous interactions or be less able to manage intake—medications that depress the central nervous system or interact with alcohol, or conditions affecting the liver, heart, or pancreas can heighten risk or worsen health problems. Young adults are also a focus because brain development is still ongoing and they may be more prone to rapid intoxication and risky behaviors, increasing the chance of harm. Because of these risks, it’s important to monitor for signs of impairment, offer nonalcoholic options and food, ensure plenty of water, and, when needed, refrain from pouring more to protect safety. When in doubt about how to proceed, consult a supervisor rather than risking potential harm.

Certain groups are more vulnerable to alcohol’s effects, so servers must be extra vigilant. Pregnant individuals should not be encouraged to drink because alcohol can harm the developing fetus and lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. People taking certain medications or having medical conditions may experience dangerous interactions or be less able to manage intake—medications that depress the central nervous system or interact with alcohol, or conditions affecting the liver, heart, or pancreas can heighten risk or worsen health problems. Young adults are also a focus because brain development is still ongoing and they may be more prone to rapid intoxication and risky behaviors, increasing the chance of harm.

Because of these risks, it’s important to monitor for signs of impairment, offer nonalcoholic options and food, ensure plenty of water, and, when needed, refrain from pouring more to protect safety. When in doubt about how to proceed, consult a supervisor rather than risking potential harm.