Training for Intervention ProcedureS (TIPS) Certification Practice Exam

What happens to a person's coordination as the level of intoxication increases?

1. It improves

2. It remains unchanged

3. It deteriorates

4. It fluctuates

The correct answer is: It deteriorates

As a person's level of intoxication increases, their coordination typically deteriorates. This decline in coordination occurs because alcohol and other intoxicating substances impair the brain's ability to control movements and balance. Increased intoxication affects various parts of the brain responsible for motor functions, reaction time, and overall cognitive processing. As these functions become compromised, simple tasks such as walking, holding objects, and even speaking can become significantly more challenging. This deterioration can lead to clumsiness, unsteadiness, and an increased likelihood of accidents or falls, reflecting a direct correlation between higher levels of intoxication and decreased coordination. Understanding this relationship is critical for safety, particularly in environments such as bars or social gatherings where intoxication is relevant.