First Aid for Poisoning

ByJanis Updated

Poisoning occurs when a person is exposed to a harmful substance by swallowing, inhaling, injecting, or absorbing it through the skin or eyes. These substances can include household cleaners, medications, chemicals, plants, gases, or contaminated food and water. Poisoning can happen suddenly and without warning, so quick action is critical to reduce harm and potentially save a life.

Children are especially vulnerable, often mistaking colorful pills or sweet-smelling cleaners for food or drink. Adults can be poisoned by overdoses, workplace chemicals, or accidental misuse of medications. Understanding how to recognize the signs and respond appropriately can make a major difference in the outcome.

Common Symptoms of Poisoning

The symptoms of poisoning depend on the type and amount of substance involved, the route of exposure, and the person’s age and overall health. General signs include:

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Stomach pain or cramps
  • Confusion, dizziness, or fainting
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Seizures
  • Slurred speech or unresponsiveness
  • Burns or redness around the mouth or lips
  • Unusual breath odor (e.g., chemical or fruity)
  • Changes in pupil size
  • Unconsciousness

Some types of poisoning may mimic other conditions, like strokes or diabetic emergencies. If you suspect poisoning, treat it as a medical emergency.

What You Can Do at Home

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

  • Remove the person from further exposure (e.g., fresh air for inhaled poisons, wash off skin contact).
  • Check for signs of breathing, consciousness, and responsiveness.
  • If the person is unconscious, not breathing, or having a seizure, call 911 immediately.

Step 2: Call Poison Control

  • In the U.S., dial 1-800-222-1222 to reach the Poison Control Center.
  • If you’re unsure whether poisoning has occurred, still call for guidance.

Be ready to provide:

  • The person’s age and weight.
  • The name of the substance (include the container if available).
  • How much was taken and when.
  • Symptoms being observed.

Step 3: Follow Expert Instructions

  • Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a poison control expert or doctor.
  • Do not give food, drink, or medication unless instructed.
  • Keep the person still and comfortable while you wait for help.

Specific First Aid for Different Types of Poisoning

Swallowed Poisons

  • Do not induce vomiting unless directed to do so.
  • Rinse the mouth gently with water.
  • Keep the person seated or lying on their side in case they vomit.
  • Collect and save any remaining substance or vomit to give to medical personnel.

Inhaled Poisons

  • Move the person to fresh air immediately.
  • Open windows and doors to ventilate the area.
  • Avoid breathing in fumes yourself.
  • Monitor breathing and be ready to perform CPR if necessary.

Skin Exposure

  • Remove contaminated clothing.
  • Rinse the skin under running water for at least 15–20 minutes.
  • Use soap if available, unless told otherwise by poison control.

Eye Exposure

  • Flush the eye with clean water or saline solution for at least 15 minutes.
  • Do not use any drops or medication unless instructed.
  • Seek emergency care if irritation persists or vision is affected.

When to Seek Emergency Help

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if the person:

  • Is unconscious or difficult to wake
  • Has difficulty breathing or is gasping
  • Is having seizures or muscle spasms
  • Has severe burns or rashes on the skin
  • Experiences chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or sudden collapse
  • Swallowed a known toxic or caustic substance (e.g., bleach, battery acid)

If the exposure involves a child, older adult, or someone with a chronic condition, always err on the side of caution and get help promptly.

Medical Treatment Options

At the hospital, care may involve:

  • Activated charcoal to absorb certain poisons (only effective within 1 hour of ingestion).
  • Antidotes for specific poisons (e.g., naloxone for opioid overdose).
  • Intravenous fluids to support circulation and flush toxins.
  • Oxygen or ventilation for breathing support.
  • Blood or urine tests to confirm the poison and assess organ function.

Prevention Tips

You can help prevent poisoning at home and in other environments by taking the following precautions:

  • Keep all chemicals, cleaners, and medications locked up and out of children’s reach.
  • Store products in their original containers with labels intact.
  • Never mix household products together (e.g., bleach and ammonia).
  • Dispose of old medications properly—never leave them where others can access them.
  • Use child-resistant caps and safety packaging.
  • Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home.
  • Label and store dangerous substances away from food and drinks.
  • Read labels carefully and follow usage instructions for medications and cleaning agents.

Keeping a Poison-Safe Home

  • Educate children not to touch or eat unknown substances.
  • Regularly inspect your home for items that could pose a poisoning risk.
  • Save the Poison Control number on your phone and display it somewhere visible.
  • Supervise children during play and household chores.

Health Writer

Janis's areas of expertise include nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mental health. She is passionate about educating and empowering people to take control of their health and make positive changes that can last a lifetime. Janis believes that small, sustainable changes are the key to long-term success, and she works with her clients to develop personalized plans that fit their individual needs and lifestyles.