How should you respond to suspected poisoning in a casualty?

• A. Evacuate immediately without identifying agent.
• B. Identify possible agent, prevent further exposure, treat symptoms, and evacuate; do not induce vomiting unless instructed.
• C. Ignore symptoms and monitor.
• D. Give home remedies.

Answer: (B)

When dealing with suspected poisoning, the priority is to stop further exposure and get professional care while keeping the casualty stable. The best response is to identify the possible agent, prevent further exposure to the person and others, treat the symptoms, and evacuate to medical care; and never induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a poison control center or clinician. Identifying the agent helps tailor decontamination and guide antidote decisions, while removing contaminated clothing and flushing skin or eyes reduces absorption. Treating symptoms means supporting breathing and circulation and providing appropriate first-aid measures. Evacuation ensures access to definitive care. Giving home remedies or ignoring symptoms isn’t safe and misses the essential steps to protect both the casualty and those nearby.