What action is emphasized for absorbed poisons?

What action is emphasized for absorbed poisons?

• A. Flush flush flush!
• B. Do nothing
• C. Brush brush brush!
• D. Induce vomiting

Answer: (C)

For poisons absorbed through the skin, the priority is to limit further absorption by physically removing the contaminant. Brushing off any dry powder or residue from the skin is emphasized because it quickly reduces the amount that can be absorbed before washing. After brushing, rinse the area with running water to flush away what remains and continue decontamination. Inducing vomiting isn’t appropriate for absorbed poisons, and simply flushing without removing the dry residue is less effective at stopping absorption. Doing nothing would allow continued uptake of the toxin.

For poisons absorbed through the skin, the priority is to limit further absorption by physically removing the contaminant. Brushing off any dry powder or residue from the skin is emphasized because it quickly reduces the amount that can be absorbed before washing. After brushing, rinse the area with running water to flush away what remains and continue decontamination.

Inducing vomiting isn’t appropriate for absorbed poisons, and simply flushing without removing the dry residue is less effective at stopping absorption. Doing nothing would allow continued uptake of the toxin.