(ME) Poisoning Lesson Four

Poisoning

A poison is any substance that is harmful or lethal to a living organism. The American Association of Poison Control Centers reports 10,830 calls to Poison Centers each day.

There are 4 ways that poisons can enter the body.

Signs and Symptoms of Poisoning

image of skull and crossbones on a containerThe symptoms of poisoning partly depend on the route of entry into the body. Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty in breathing, headaches, weakness, changes in heart rate pattern (fast, slow or irregular), watering of the eyes, confusion, and impaired consciousness. If the exposure has been to the skin, the person may also complain of swelling, rashes, redness and itching of the skin. You should suspect poisoning if there are empty containers for medicines or chemicals near the poisoned person, or there is a strange smell present (for example, of bleach or kerosene). So, in considering poisoning, you should look around where the person became ill and ask questions to gather possible clues. Collect any evidence that may give EMS personnel or Poison Control dispatchers information about the possible poison. Take the containers with you to show the doctor if you are instructed to transport the patient to the nearest health facility. Knowing what has been swallowed will help the medical staff to know what action to take to neutralize the poison.

First Aid Care

Take the following steps to care for a suspected poisoning emergency:

  • Ensure the scene is safe to enter
  • Check for consciousness and breathing
  • Care for life-threatening conditions
  • Collect evidence about the possible poison ask questions if the victim is conscious
  • Call the National Poison Control Center Hotline @ 1-800-222-1222
  • Follow the directions given by the Poison Control dispatcher
  • Do not give the victim anything to eat or drink unless instructed by the Poison Control dispatcher or EMS personnel.
  • Continue to monitor ABC's and care for life threatening conditions

Prevention

Please read the American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED Participants Manual below for information on preventing accidental poisoning and some special considerations.

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