Poisoning

Ingestion of harmful products and medicines

Poisoning as a result of ingesting harmful products and medicines is one of the main causes of death in young children.

Although such poisoning is much rarer in adults, there are still too many cases.

First aid

• Never give a drink, especially milk, to a person who has ingested a toxic product (milk makes it easier for certain products of this kind to pass into the bloodstream).
• Identify the product that has been swallowed and read the information on the packaging (which usually provides useful advice in case of accidental ingestion).
• Call 112 or 8002 5500 (Belgian poison control centre) and state:
  • the product ingested,
  • the time of ingestion,
  • the quantity ingested.
• If the victim is unconscious, put them in the recovery position, so that they do not choke on any vomit.
• If the victim is conscious, keep them calm and monitor any change in their condition while waiting for the emergency services.

Carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is the most common form of asphyxiation. CO is a toxic gas resulting from incomplete combustion. It is difficult to detect. The gas is colourless, odourless and flavourless. Together with air it forms a highly toxic mix. CO can kill in just a few minutes.

A victim of carbon monoxide poisoning will suffer from headaches, dizziness and vomiting. They will also feel unusually tired. In addition, they can experience confusion and may lose consciousness.

First aid

• Start by ventilating the entire room.
• If the victim is conscious:
  • lead them out of the room,
  • call 112.
• If the victim is unconscious:
  • get them out of the room,
  • check that they are not having a cardiac arrest,
  • if they are breathing, put them in the recovery position,
  • call 112.

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