MEDALL

Poisons are chemical substances that cause injuries or death due to their chemical reactions in the cells. Poisons can be ingested (swallowed), inhaled or injected.

Symptoms

Ingested

• Unusual breath odour
• Burns or stains around mouth, on the clothing, and/or the surrounding area
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness
• Abdominal pain
• Seizures

Inhaled

• Breathing problems
• Coughing
• Seizures

Absorbed or Injected

• Headache
• Fever
• Drowsiness
• Vision problems
• Unconsciousness

Action

• Try to identify poison - look around, sniff air for unusual odours
• Call Emergency - inform about what poison has been swallowed and wait for instructions
• Place the casualty on his/her side
• Save vomit for medical personnel - to help identify the kind of poison and give appropriate treatment immediately
• If vomit falls on skin, wash it thoroughly
• If poisonous gas is inhaled, move casualty to fresh air. Open all doors and windows before you go to help and hold a wet cloth over your nose and mouth
• Do not induce vomiting or give any medication to the casualty unless instructed by a medical personnel
• In case of seizures, protect the casualty from injuring himself/herself