FIRST AID: Dealing with swallowed poisons

St John Ambulance, the nation's leading first aid charity, has teamed up with The News to bring you some simple, but life-saving, first aid tips.
By The Newsroom
Published 7th Nov 2017, 11:40 BST
Updated 12th Dec 2017, 05:24 BST
St John Ambulance advises what to do if someone swallows poison (Shutterstock)St John Ambulance advises what to do if someone swallows poison (Shutterstock)
St John Ambulance advises what to do if someone swallows poison (Shutterstock)

Chemicals that are swallowed may harm the digestive tract or can cause more widespread damage if they enter the bloodstream and are transported to other parts of the body.

Hazardous chemicals include common household substances. For example, bleach, dishwasher detergent and paint stripper are poisonous or corrosive if swallowed.

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Drugs, whether prescribed or bought over the counter, are also potentially harmful if they are taken in overdose. The effects of poisoning depend on the substance that has been swallowed.

Depending on the substance swallowed, the casualty may show these signs:

n Vomiting, sometimes bloodstained

n Impaired consciousness

n Pain or a burning sensation

n Cramping abdominal pain

n Empty containers in the vicinity

Follow these simple steps to help:

If the casualty is conscious, ask what they have swallowed and, if possible, how much and when. Look for clues, for example, poisonous plants, berries or empty containers. Try to reassure the casualty. Never try to induce vomiting.

Call 999/112 for emergency help and give as much information as possible about the poison. This will help the medical team to treat the casualty. Monitor and record vital signs while waiting for help to arrive.

Keep samples of any vomited material. Give these samples, containers and any other clues to the paramedics.

For quick, easily accessible first aid information, go to sja.org.uk.