What is the first thing you do for an unconscious victim of poisoning?

• A. Call the poison control center only
• B. Give them water to drink
• C. Check for a pulse
• D. Check breathing and call the poison control center

Answer: (D)

The first priority when someone is unconscious from poisoning is to ensure their airway and breathing. You assess whether they are breathing right away because a lack of breathing can lead to rapid brain injury or death. If they are breathing, you should get expert guidance from the poison control center to know what toxin is involved and what specific steps to take next, while you monitor them and prepare to call emergency services if needed. If they’re not breathing, you must start CPR immediately and call for help. Giving water isn’t helpful and can risk choking or aspiration, and simply checking for a pulse doesn’t tell you whether breathing is present and what your next move should be. So the best immediate action is to check breathing and contact the poison control center for instructions.