First Aid Applications for Poisoning
Poisoning is a medical emergency that occurs when a person is exposed to a substance that can cause illness or injury. Knowing how to respond to different types of poisonings can be crucial in minimizing harm and ensuring the best possible outcome.
This page covers first aid applications for poisonings affecting various parts of the body.
Ingested Poisoning
- If possible, identify the substance ingested. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a medical professional.
- Provide them with information about the substance, the amount ingested, and the time of ingestion.
- Do not give anything to eat or drink, unless advised by a healthcare professional.
- Keep the person comfortable, and monitor their breathing and consciousness level.
Inhaled Poisoning
- Move the person to fresh air immediately, avoiding exposure to yourself.
- Loosen any tight clothing to help them breathe.
- Contact emergency services and provide details about the exposure
- If the person is having trouble breathing, perform CPR if trained.
Skin Exposure
- Carefully remove clothing that has the poison on it.
- Rinse the skin with lukewarm water for at least 15-20 minutes.
- Gently wash the area but do not scrub, as this can worsen the injury.
- Even if the person seems fine, some chemicals can cause delayed reactions.
Eye Exposure
- Rinse the eye with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes. Hold the eyelid open while rinsing.
- Do not try to remove contact lenses unless they come out easily with rinsing.
- After rinsing, seek immediate medical attention.
General Guidelines
- Keeping calm helps you think clearly and aids the person affected.
- Ensure your safety before assisting to avoid secondary poisoning.
- Always follow the instructions of medical professionals or poison control centers.
Remember, the best course of action in case of any poisoning is to seek professional medical help immediately. This guide should not replace professional medical advice or emergency services.