First aid - Poisoning
 

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First aid - Poisoning



















































































































































































































































































































































Many conditions mimic the signs and symptoms of poisoning, including

seizures, alcohol intoxication, stroke and insulin reaction. So look

for the signs and symptoms listed below if you suspect poisoning, but

check with the local emergency before giving anything to the affected person.



Signs and symptoms of poisoning:



Burns or redness around the mouth and lips, which can result from drinking certain poisonsBreath that smells like chemicals, such as gasoline or paint thinnerBurns,

stains and odors on the person, on his or her clothing, or on the

furniture, floor, rugs or other objects in the surrounding areaEmpty medication bottles or scattered pillsVomiting, difficulty breathing, sleepiness, confusion or other unexpected signs



When to call for help:





Call your local emergency number immediately if the person is:



Drowsy or unconsciousHaving difficulty breathing or has stopped breathingUncontrollably restless or agitatedHaving seizures



If the person seems stable and has no symptoms, but you suspect

poisoning, call the local emergency. Provide

information about the person's symptoms and, if possible, information

about what he or she ingested, how much and when.



What to do while waiting for help:



If the person has been exposed to poisonous fumes, such as carbon monoxide, get him or her into fresh air immediately.If the person swallowed the poison, remove anything remaining in the mouth.If

the suspected poison is a household cleaner or other chemical, read the

label and follow instructions for accidental poisoning. If the product

is toxic, the label will likely advise you to call the local emergency. Also call if you can't identify

the poison, if it's medication or if there are no instructions.Follow treatment directions that are given by the poison control center.If

the poison spilled on the person's clothing, skin or eyes, remove the

clothing. Flush the skin or eyes with cool or lukewarm water, such as

by using a shower for 20 minutes or until help arrives.Take the poison container (or any pill bottles) with you to the hospital.



What NOT to do





Don't administer ipecac syrup or do anything to induce vomiting.

In 2003, the American Academy of Pediatrics advised discarding ipecac

in the home, saying there's no good evidence of effectiveness and that

it can do more harm than good.