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POISONS

Poisons By the end of this session you will be able to: describe how poisons can enter the body respond appropriately to a poisoned casualty give some examples of different sorts of poisons.

Poisons Definition A poison is any substance taken in sufficient quantity to cause damage to the body.

Poisons Poisons can enter the body in five ways: absorbed through the skin injected through the skin inhaled splashed in the eyes swallowed

Poisons absorbed through the skin What you should do: remove any clothing with the poison on it place the affected part under running water for at least 20 minutes seek medical help start CPR if necessary.

Poisons injected through the skin What you should do: treat for a bite or a sting if appropriate dial 999 or 112 for an ambulance if the casualty is unresponsive place them in the recovery position start CPR if necessary.

Inhaled poisons What you should do: if safe to do so, lead the casualty away from the source of poisonous fumes to fresh air dial 999 or 112 for an ambulance start CPR if necessary.

Poisons splashed in the eye What you should do: hold the affected eye under gently running cold water for at least 10 minutes dial 999 or 112 for an ambulance identify the poison if possible start CPR if necessary.

Swallowed poisons What you should do: reassure the casualty try and find out what the casualty has taken dial 999 or 112 for an ambulance and monitor them if the casualty’s lips or mouth are burning, give small sips of water or milk.

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