DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services: Poison First Aid Tips
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Poison First Aid Tips

Please note that the source for these first aid instructions is the American Red Cross. Different signs, symptoms, and their causes may dictate different treatments. When in doubt, always call 911 first; the Fire and Emergency Medical Services call taker is prepared to give you instructions over the phone.

Poison: First Aid at a Glance

Signs and Symptoms First Aid
Symptoms vary greatly.

Aids in determining whether poison was swallowed:
  • Information from victim or observer
  • Presence of poison container
  • Condition of victim
        (sudden onset of pain or illness)
  • Burns around lips
  • Breath odor
  • Pupil contracted to pinpoint size
  • All victims, call 911.
  • Save label or container for ID.

    Conscious victims
  • Dilute the poison with milk or water.
  • Do not neutralize with counteragents.
  • Do not give oils.

    Unconscious victims
  • Maintain open airway (victim on side).
  • Give mouth-to-mouth resuscitation or
        CPR if necessary.
  • Do not give fluids.
  • Do not induce vomiting.

    Convulsions
  • Do not restrain victim.
  • Loosen tight clothing.
  • Watch for airway obstruction.
  • Do not give fluids.
  • Do not induce vomiting.

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