Poisoning from inhalation and ingestion of toxic materials, whether accidental or intentional, is a major health risk. The magnitude of the problem is reflected in the number of cases and deaths caused by specific poisons at various stages. In fact, common household materials can cause such a condition, and when left unattended and unidentified, morbidity increases.
Of course, science and technology have undoubtedly ushered in a new era of development as they continue to provide advancements that make people's lives easier. From cleaning products to cosmetics, each chemical is designed to help people overcome obstacles and make their lives easier.
Every year, more than one million cases of poisoning occur in the United States. At the very least, three thousand of these patients will perish. Drugs account for nearly half of all poison ingestions; other commonly implicated products include household preparations, pesticides, and petroleum distillates.
Whatever statistics may show, it is critical that you know what to do if anyone in your family, neighborhood, or workplace has been poisoned by chemicals.
To begin, you must understand the principles of poisoning management. It is critical to provide immediate supportive care, with special attention paid to respiratory and circulatory states, as well as excretory and detoxification organs.
The next goal would be to get the poison out of the patient's system. Finally, provide the necessary antidote.
If emergency management is required, it is critical that you know what to do before the paramedics arrive.
Chemicals ingested
Except in a few cases that will be discussed later, it is critical to remove poison from the patient's stomach as soon as possible by inducing vomiting. This cannot be overstated because it is the essence of the treatment and is frequently life-saving. If necessary, wrap the patient in blankets to prevent chilling. It is best not to serve any type of alcohol.
Cases where vomiting should not be induced include unconscious or coma patients, convulsions, and the ingestion of petroleum products or corrosive poison. Among the corrosive products are:
- Acid and acid-like corrosives like sodium acid sulfate (toilet bowl cleaners), acetic acid (glacial), sulfuric acid, nitric acid, oxalic acid, hydrochloric acid, and iodine.
- Alkali corrosive substances such as sodium hydrochloride, sodium carbonate (washing soda), and sodium hypochlorite (household bleach)
Chemicals inhaled
Patients who work in a chemical laboratory or are frequently in contact with chemicals are more likely to inhale them. Certain safety precautions should be put in place by the company to avoid hazards, injuries, and even death.
Unforeseen circumstances, on the other hand, do exist, and accidents do occur. So, when these occur, the best thing to do is to know how to implement emergency management.
It is best to do the following in cases of inhaled chemicals:
- Carry the patient to fresh air as soon as possible
- Open all doors and windows
- Loosen all tight clothing
- Use artificial respiration if breathing has stopped or is irregular
- If the patient is convulsing, keep him in bed in a semi-dark room
- Never give alcohol in any form
These are just a few basic first-aid tips that you should be aware of. Keep in mind that chemicals were not designed to cause harm to humans. They are, in fact, beneficial to humanity. However, the manner in which they are used and handled can occasionally cause a problem. As a result, it is preferable if you know what to do about it.
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