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The only way to learn how to properly react in a medical emergency is to undergo first aid training. However, it can be useful to have a little knowledge of basic first aid before you start your first aid training course.

In this guide, we will look at some of the basic things you need to know to react to cases of suspected poisoning.

• If you suspect that someone has ingested or inhaled poison, you will need to contact the emergency services
• Whilst you’re waiting for help to arrive, conduct a primary survey of the person’s condition by gently shaking the person’s shoulders, asking them if they can hear you and getting them to open their eyes – if you don’t get a response, you need to get urgent help.
• You should also check the person’s airways, breathing and circulation (ABC)
• If you have received first aid training and know how to administer CPR, you can do so if the person isn’t breathing properly
• You should also try to find out the type and quantity of poison that was ingested
• Keeping the victim calm and reassured until the emergency services arrive
• Remove any contaminated clothing from the person
• Unless instructed by a 999 operative, do not try to make the person who has ingested the poison vomit.