- Recognize the symptoms and signs of drug overdose - Look for environmental clues for suspected drug overdose - Seek medical help immediately
As a first aider
Do’s 1. If the elderly is unconscious: a / Call 999 IMMEDIATELY, inform the operator that there is a suspected poisoning b / Maintain an open airway c / Monitor the vital signs (respiratory rate, pulse rate, consciousness) d / Perform CPR if necessary 2. If the elderly is conscious and stable: a / Call 999 IMMEDIATELY, inform the operator that there is a suspected poisoning b / Help the elderly into a comfortable position (Lying the elderly on his left side can reduce initial absorption of toxin into the intestine) c / Assess the nature of poisoning d / Suicide attempt or unintentional poisoning? e / Type and the amount of drugs/poison taken? f / Time of dosing? g / Look for clues (e.g. opened drug container) in the environment. h / Continue to monitor the elderly’s vital signs (respiratory rate, pulse rate, consciousness) i / Keep samples of the vomitus and other clues (e.g. drug container) Don’ts 1. Attempt to induce vomiting 2. Eat wild plants or fungus collected from the countryside
Toxicology
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