Poisoning
Important!
 | If chemicals have splashed or spilled into the victim's
eyes, see Eye Emergencies.
| If chemicals have splashed or spilled onto the victim's
skin, see Burns.
| If the victim has inhaled poisonous gas, take him or her
to fresh air and then begin the first-aid steps for
poisoning described here.
| Since a poisoning victim may exhibit few symptoms or may
have symptoms that are not listed below, it is very
important to examine the area for clues. |
| | |
Symptoms
| Headache
| Chills
| Dizziness
| Drowsiness
| Fever
| Burns on the skin
| Abdominal pain
| Nausea or vomiting
| Vision problems
| Breathing problems
| Seizures
| Unconsciousness
| Unusual breath odor |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Caution
Do you suspect a head, neck or
back injury?
First Aid
- Check the victim's ABCs. If
the victim is not breathing or does not have a pulse or
heartbeat, begin CPR.
- Try to identify the poison. If possible, ask the
victim what he swallowed or inhaled. Otherwise, look
around for any open or nearby containers of chemicals or
for any plants or household items that the victim may have
swallowed. Sniff the air for unusual odors.
- Call your local poison control center or 911.
Tell emergency personnel what chemical, plant or household
item the victim swallowed. Wait for instructions on how to
proceed.
Florida Poison Control
Center
- Follow the instructions given by the poison control
center or by 911 personnel. Depending on the poison,
you may be instructed to induce vomiting by giving the
victim syrup of ipecac, milk or water to drink, or to give
activated charcoal. CAUTION: Do not try to induce vomiting
unless told to do so. Do not induce vomiting if it has
been more than one hour since the victim ingested the
poison. Do not give the victim anything to eat or drink
unless told to do so. Do not rely on poisoning
instructions given on container labels.
- Place the victim in the recovery position.
Illustration: Recovery
Position
- Save any vomit for medical personnel to test.
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