Poisoning

Overview

Poisoning can happen through swallowed substances, fumes, skin or eye exposure, bites, stings, or injected drugs. The correct action depends on the substance, amount, route, and the person's condition.

Signs and Clues

• Empty containers, tablets, chemicals, plants, or contaminated food
• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhoea
• Burns around the mouth or skin irritation
• Drowsiness, confusion, seizures, or collapse
• Breathing difficulty, unusual smells, or noisy breathing

First Aid

• Ensure the scene is safe before approaching.
• Follow DRSABCD.
• Call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 for specific advice.
• Call 000 if the person is unconscious, not breathing normally, fitting, seriously unwell, or exposed to a dangerous chemical or gas.
• Keep the substance container, label, plant sample, or medication packet for ambulance or medical staff.
• For skin or eye exposure, remove contaminated clothing if safe and rinse as advised by Poisons Information or emergency services.

Do Not

• Do not induce vomiting.
• Do not give food, drink, or medication unless advised by Poisons Information or a healthcare professional.
• Do not enter confined spaces or contaminated air without specialist protection.