What is the initial step when dealing with suspected poisoning?

• A. Induce vomiting before anything else.
• B. Call local poison control before taking any action.
• C. Begin aggressive IV fluids.
• D. Identify possible agent and prevent further exposure.

Answer: (D)

When faced with suspected poisoning, the most important first move is to identify what might be involved and stop or limit further exposure. Knowing the possible agent guides all subsequent steps—what decontamination is appropriate, whether specific antidotes exist, and what symptoms to monitor. Preventing further absorption is crucial because it reduces the amount of toxin entering the body and can improve outcomes. This means actions like removing the person from the source, taking off contaminated clothing, and rinsing skin or eyes if contact has occurred.

Inducing vomiting is not routinely appropriate because it can cause choking or aspiration and is not safe for many poisons. Beginning aggressive IV fluids is a treatment step that may be needed later, depending on the patient’s condition, but it isn’t the initial action. Calling local poison control is important as guidance, but the very first action to take is to identify the potential agent and prevent further exposure.