POISONING AND FIRST AID
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It
is easier to prevent poisoning than to treat it, so always handle pesticides
carefully.
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Speed
is essential in the treatment of pesticide contamination and swallowing.
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Immediately
call a doctor or take the patient to a hospital.
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Show
the doctor the label of the pesticide container, tell him how the poisoning
took place – by swallowing, inhalation or skin contact.
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Antidotes
must only be given by qualified persons.
Common symptoms of mild
pesticide poisoning are: sickness, dizziness, headache, diarrhea, irritation of
the skin, eyes and nose. More severe symptoms such as stomach cramps, rapid
pulse, difficulty in breathing, trembling and vomiting or an even more serious
condition may develop.
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While
waiting for medical assistance, the victim can be helped as follows:
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Remove
contaminated clothing and wash contaminated skin and hair.
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Pesticides
splashed or dusted into the eye are rapidly absorbed and must be washed out
immediately with a lot of clean water. Continue washing for at least 10
minutes.
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Never
give alcohol or milk when poisoning is suspected.
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Keeping
a victim calm and comfortable gives him the best chance to recover.
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After
recovery victims of pesticide poisoning should refrain from handling
pesticides for several weeks. More severe poisoning may occur, if they
return to work too soon.
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