The recommended treatment for absorbed or contact poisons includes _________.

The recommended treatment for absorbed or contact poisons includes _________.

• A. Safely removing or diluting the poisonous substance
• B. Neutralizing the poisonous substance with a chemical
• C. Transporting the patient to the emergency department with the poisonous substance in place
• D. Collecting and transporting the poisonous substance to the emergency department for identification

Answer: (A)

The key idea is to limit exposure by removing the poison and diluting it when appropriate. For absorbed or contact poisons, the safest first aid is to get the person away from the source and remove any contaminated clothing or jewelry, then rinse the affected skin or eyes with plenty of water for several minutes. Neutralizing the substance with another chemical can trigger harmful reactions or worsen injury, so that approach is not used. Transporting the person with the poison still on them or trying to collect and transport the substance for identification delays care and increases risk to responders. By safely removing the poison and diluting or washing it away, you reduce absorption and help protect the person while professional help is obtained.

The key idea is to limit exposure by removing the poison and diluting it when appropriate. For absorbed or contact poisons, the safest first aid is to get the person away from the source and remove any contaminated clothing or jewelry, then rinse the affected skin or eyes with plenty of water for several minutes. Neutralizing the substance with another chemical can trigger harmful reactions or worsen injury, so that approach is not used. Transporting the person with the poison still on them or trying to collect and transport the substance for identification delays care and increases risk to responders. By safely removing the poison and diluting or washing it away, you reduce absorption and help protect the person while professional help is obtained.