It is still National Poison Prevention Week, and we've discussed poisoning in the past but here are some basic reminders: What to look for:
  • Trouble breathing
  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
  • Chest or abdominal pain
  • Sweating, changes in consciousness, seizures
  • Burns around the lips or tongue, or on the skin
  • Open or spilled containers; open medicine cabinet
  • Overturned or damaged plant
  • Unusual odors, flames, smoke
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  What to do:
  • CHECK the scene to make sure it is safe to approach as a rescuer and gather clues about what happened.
  • Look for any containers.
  • If necessary, move the person to safety, away from the source of the poison.
  • CHECK the person’s level of consciousness and breathing.
  • CARE for any life-threatening conditions, if found, and CALL 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.
  • If you suspect that a person is showing signals of poisoning, call the National Poison Control Center (PCC) hotline at 800-222-1222.
  • DO NOT give the person anything to eat or drink unless directed to do so by National PCC hotline or EMS Personnel.
  • If you suspect someone has swallowed a poison, try to find out the type of poison, how much was taken and when it was taken.
  • If the person vomits, position him or her on the side.
1 (800) 222-1222 American Association of Poison Control Centers Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week Languages: English Website: www.aapcc.org 1 (800) 222-1222
American Association of Poison Control Centers
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week
Languages: English
Website: www.aapcc.org