First Aid Treatment for Poisoning

Poisoning can be life-threatening. It is important to call 911 while trying to assess the situation and stabilize the patient. If you know what substance the person ingested, follow the instructions on the label for treatment. Once this is done, contact your local Poison Control Center for assistance.

When to Induce Vomiting

• Under no circumstance should you ever induce vomiting if a person is unconscious or drowsy, as this can obstruct the airway. Do not try to make someone vomit unless Poison Control instructs you to do it.

Water

• In many instances, giving the patient small amounts of water is useful to help flush out toxins.

Poisonous Fumes

• If a poison has been inhaled, open windows or take the person away from the area.

Ipecac Syrup

• Ipecac syrup is a powerful medicine originally created to help remove poison from the body. Physicians no longer recommend its use. Do not give a patient ipecac syrup under any circumstance, as it will cause more harm than good.

Skin Poisoning

• If the skin has become tainted, wash immediately with water for at least 10 minutes, and then wash again with soap and water.

Eye Poisoning

• Flush the eyes with lukewarm water from a glass for at least 15 minutes. Blink your eyes as much as possible, but do not pry them open or rub them.