VI.

Poisoning and Drug Overdose

A poisonous substance introduced into the body through the mouth or nose causes symptoms such as nausea, cramps, and vomiting. Poisons include toxic medications, herbicides, insecticides, rodenticides, household disinfectants, and noxious gases.

In a case of poisoning, the first-aid provider should remove the victim from a toxic environment, then contact the poison control center listed in most United States phone books. If the number is unavailable, the provider should call a physician or hospital emergency department. If possible, the provider should try to identify the poison, either by questioning the victim or searching for suspicious containers. Containers of many poisonous substances list the antidote, or remedy, on the label. Burns or stains on the skin or a characteristic odor on the breath may also help the first-aid provider recognize the poison.

Unless instructed to do so by the poison control center, the first-aid provider should never give a poisoning victim anything to eat or drink. Vomiting should not be induced unless the poison control center recommends it. If the victim vomits, the first-aid provider should turn the individual on the side and clear the airway. Before clearing the victim’s mouth of any obstructions, however, the provider should first put on clean first-aid gloves or wrap a cloth around his or her fingers. If the person who ingested the poison is unconscious, the airway, breathing, and circulation should be checked and CPR started if necessary.

A drug overdose occurs when an individual takes too large a dose of a drug or takes a dose that is stronger than the person can tolerate. A drug overdose can be difficult to diagnose because the signs and symptoms vary widely and often mimic other illnesses or injuries. Symptoms of a drug overdose include unusually dilated or contracted pupils, vomiting, difficulty in breathing, hallucinations, and in severe cases unconsciousness and slow, deep breathing. If an overdose is not treated, the individual may die. Victims of overdose should be taken immediately to a hospital emergency room.