Philadelphia Fire Department Practice Exam

The presence of sluggishness is a common sign of an overdose on central nervous system depressants. These substances, which include drugs like benzodiazepines and barbiturates, work by slowing down brain activity, leading to a decrease in overall body functions. When an individual overdoses on these depressants, they may exhibit extreme drowsiness, lethargy, and a general lack of responsiveness, all of which are characterized by sluggishness. This lethargy can impair motor skills, reaction times, and cognitive functions, making it one of the key indicators of an overdose.

In contrast, increased alertness and excessive energy are typically associated with stimulants rather than depressants. Erratic behavior can occur in various contexts but is not specifically indicative of an overdose on depressants, as this type of behavior is more often linked to different types of substance use or intoxication. Thus, recognizing sluggishness as a prominent sign helps first responders and medical personnel identify potential overdose situations more effectively.