First Aid

Poisoning

Symptoms alone, which can range from nausea and dizziness to chest pain and pale skin, may not be enough to distinguish poisoning from another illness. Talk to the victim, look for open containers and take note of strange fumes.

Treatment Techniques

If you find someone who has come in contact with a poison, separate the patient and yourself from the poison and call your local Poison Control Center at 1-800-922-1117 or the Carolinas Hospital System Emergency Department at 674-5100 for further information.

In most cases, the mild, yet uncomfortable symptoms clear up in a few days. Bed rest, over-the-counter medications, and fluids should relieve gastrointestinal discomfort.

When should I call a Doctor or the Poison Control Center?

You should see a doctor for circumstances listed below:

  • Severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, or a fever over 101.5 degrees
  • Severe vomiting or diarrhea for more than two days
  • Symptoms, even mild, that last a week or longer
  • Dehydration
  • A very young, elderly, or immune-compromised patient

When you call a Doctor or Emergency Center

Because there are over 250,000 possible household poisons, there is no single best response. This is why you need to call the Poison Control Center immediately. Be prepared to answer the following questions, but don't act until instructed to do so.

  • What is the substance involved? Be specific about the type and amount.
  • Was the substance inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin?
  • When or for how long was the person in contact with the toxin?
  • What is the person's present condition?
  • Has the person vomited?

If possible, stay with the victim while talking with poison control personnel. Monitor the person's vital functions and offer reassurance to help him, and yourself stay calm.

Prevention Techniques

  • Keep medicines and household chemicals out of the reach of children.
  • Install a carbon monoxide detector, since this colorless, odorless gas is responsible for hundreds of accidental, fatal poisonings every year.
  • Cook foods thoroughly and store properly.
  • During food preparation, be sure to use clean utensils and a clean surface.

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