St John Ambulance, the nation’s leading first aid charity, has teamed up with the Island Echo to bring you some simple, but life saving, first aid tips . This week: dealing with swallowed poisons.
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 chemical include common household substances; for example, bleach, dishwasher detergent and paint stripper are poisonous or corrosive if swallowed. 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:
• Vomiting, sometimes bloodstained
• Impaired consciousness
• Pain or a burning sensation
• Cramping abdominal pain
• 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. 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 those looking for quick, easily accessible first aid information, the St John Ambulance app is available free on smartphones and the website (www.sja.org.uk) offers demo videos, an interactive game, and lots of free advice.
For more information about first aid courses, and volunteering opportunities in Ryde and Newport, please call 0303 003 0101.
