11. Poisoning 11.1 How Poisons Enter the Body
Poisons enter the body through many routes, they can be swallowed, inhaled though the nose or mouth, injected or absorbed through the skin or splashed (instilled) into the eye. Once they enter the body, poisons can affect the body in many different ways. Some signs and symptoms can be mild, others life threatening, depending on the poison and the quantity that has entered the body. The definition of a poison is any substance taken in sufficient quantity that can cause temporary or permanent damage to the body.
11.2
Types of Poison If we understand that “ANY substance taken in sufficient quantity” can be classed as a poison it makes it very difficult to cover every possible scenario in this excellent though small first aid manual. So we will focus on the most common:
Swallowed Poisons
Recognition – Possible burning sensation around the mouth and throat, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, seizures and an impaired level of consciousness Causes – Household chemicals, plant poisons, drugs, foods, alcohol Treatment – Identify the poison taken, sit the child down, give sips of water, do not induce vomiting, keep the child still and call 999/112 for an ambulance. Be prepared to resuscitate (using a face shield or pocket mask)
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