What is the recommended field management for suspected poison ingestion?

• A. Induce vomiting immediately; monitor airway.
• B. Identify toxin; stop exposure; call poison control or medical advisor; monitor airway/breathing; do not induce vomiting; if instructed and trained, consider activated charcoal; evacuate.
• C. Do nothing.
• D. Call EMS only if symptoms.

Answer: (B)

When someone may have ingested poison, the priority in the field is to prevent further absorption and get expert guidance while keeping the airway clear and breathing stable. The best approach is to identify as much about the toxin as possible, stop further exposure (remove contaminated source, rinse if skin or mouth contact, etc.), and call poison control or a medical advisor for specific instructions. At the same time, monitor the person’s airway, breathing, and circulation so you can act quickly if their condition worsens. Do not induce vomiting; throwing up can cause aspiration and can worsen injury depending on the toxin. If advised by a poison control or medical professional and you’re trained to do so, consider activated charcoal within the appropriate time frame and dosing, but only under their direction. Evacuate to medical care promptly if symptoms develop or the situation warrants, because definitive treatment is provided in a clinical setting.