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Food poisoning
 Casualties with food poisoning normally need rest and plenty of fluids to rehydrate them.
What is it?
Badly prepared or incorrectly stored food produces bacteria and toxins. These cause inflammation of the gut.
Alcohol and drugs can function as poisons in certain circumstances.
Symptoms
Abdominal cramps
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhoea
Dehydration
Chills and fever
First aid aims
Encourage the casualty to take plenty of fluids
Seek medical advice if necessary
Actions
Rehydrate casualty with plenty of fluids
Encourage casualty to rest
Seek medical advice if necessary
Watch to see if condition worsens or there are symptoms of shock
Further action
If the casualty's condition worsens, call 999.
Poisoning
If you suspect someone has been poisoned, you should make sure they seek professional medical attention.
What is it?
A poisonous substance can damage the body, temporarily or permanently. It can be taken accidentally, for example by a child, or intentionally, as in attempted suicide.
Alcohol and drugs can function as poisons in certain circumstances.
Symptoms
The effects of poisoning depend on the substance that has been swallowed. Look for:
Pain and nausea
Possible vomiting
Lethargy and sleepiness
Unconsciousness
Cardiac arrest
First aid aims
Check around casualty for danger
Maintain an open airway
Arrange for casualty to be taken to hospital
Actions - if casualty is conscious
Check for danger at scene of poisoning
Ask what they have swallowed
Never attempt to induce vomiting
Actions - if casualty is unconscious
Check for response
Maintain an open airway and start resuscitation if necessary
Call 999
Further actions
If possible, give details of the poison when making the 999 call
Give any medicines or tablets to the ambulance crew
Monitor the casualty while waiting for the ambulance to arrive
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