What should you do if someone has swallowed poison?

In a situation where someone has swallowed poison, the best course of action is to call poison control and follow their instructions. This is crucial because professionals are equipped with the knowledge and resources to provide accurate and safe guidance tailored to the specific situation and type of poison ingested.

Inducing vomiting, which might seem like a logical response to remove the poison from the body, can actually be harmful depending on the poison involved. Some substances can cause more damage if they are brought back up. Additionally, vomiting can also pose the risk of inhalation into the lungs, which can lead to further complications.

Similarly, administering water to dilute the poison is not advisable without guidance. Depending on the form of poison, this could worsen the situation rather than help. Some poisons may not mix well with water or could react negatively when diluted.

Waiting for symptoms to appear is also counterproductive, as it delays necessary treatment. Poisoning can lead to rapid bodily harm, and timely intervention is essential to minimize any adverse effects.

Overall, contacting poison control is the safest and most effective immediate action, as they can provide step-by-step instructions based on the specific poison involved and the individual’s condition.