Identifying and managing poisoning: a practical guide

In the event of poisoning, quick action is essential. Whether at home, at work or during outdoor activities, knowing how to recognise the symptoms of poisoning and react appropriately can save lives. This article takes you through the key steps in identifying poisoning and the first aid to be administered until help arrives.

Early detection of signs of intoxication

Early detection of the signs of poisoning is crucial in limiting the harmful effects on health. Symptoms can vary widely depending on the nature of the poisoning (food, chemical, drug, etc.), but some common signs include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, and sometimes convulsions or loss of consciousness. By learning to identify these symptoms, you can act quickly and effectively.

The right thing to do

If intoxication is suspected, it is important not to induce vomiting or give anything by mouth, unless the emergency services advise otherwise. If the person is conscious and not having difficulty breathing, ask them to remain calm and in a sitting position. If possible, keep any residue of what may have caused the poisoning, as this may be useful to health professionals for treatment.

When and how do you alert emergency services?

It is essential to call emergency services immediately on the local emergency number (144 in Switzerland) as soon as poisoning is suspected. Provide precise information about the person’s condition, the symptoms observed, the time they began, and any substances you think may be causing the poisoning. This information is crucial so that the emergency services can prepare their response.

Prevention and awareness

Prevention is the best way to combat the risk of poisoning. Maintaining safe practices when handling chemicals, monitoring the expiry and storage of food, and keeping medicines out of children’s reach are effective measures. It is also advisable to take first aid training courses, such as the IAS 2 course, to better understand and react in the event of an emergency.

Summary and useful resources

In short, although dealing with poisoning can seem daunting, knowing the right actions and reacting quickly is within everyone’s grasp. We encourage further training, such as that offered in the IAS 2 course syllabus, although this is not part of the IAS 1 course syllabus and BLS AED SRC. Further resources can be found at local health centres and on dedicated poisoning prevention websites.