Online First Aid Course

Learn how to provide essential care before emergency responders arrive with our 100% Online First Aid Course. Complete it in 1–2 hours and receive instant certification valid for 2 years—plus unlimited quiz retakes.

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Chapters	CE Credits	Validity	Cost	Duration	ECC	Exam Attempts	Wallet Card
25	6.0	2 Years	$36.95	1-2 Hrs	Compliant	Unlimited	Download/Print/Mail

Chapters25
CE Credits6.0
Validity2 Years
Cost$36.95
Duration1-2 Hrs
ECCCompliant
Exam AttemptsUnlimited
Wallet CardDownload/Print/Mail

Chapter 25: Poison Emergencies

A poison is any substance that can cause harm—injury, illness, or even death—if it enters the body, either accidentally or on purpose. It can be dangerous when swallowed, inhaled, absorbed through the skin, or injected.

Common Causes of Poisoning

Some common sources include:

Alcohol or drugs
Cleaning products
Contaminated food or water
Pesticides
Poisonous plants like poison ivy
Harmful gases or liquids

What to Look For

If someone is poisoned, symptoms might include:

Burning around the lips or tongue
Eye irritation or tearing
Trouble breathing
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Skin color changes
Seizures, dizziness, or headaches
Chest or abdominal pain
Hallucinations or altered consciousness
Uneven pupil size

Types of Poison Emergencies

Swallowed Poisons
These are poisons that enter the body through the mouth. They can include alcohol, certain drugs, cleaning solutions, spoiled food, or even plants. Some may only be harmful in large amounts, while others can be dangerous even in small doses.
Inhaled Poisons
These are breathed in and may include fumes from car exhaust, chemicals like chlorine, or vapors from paints and glue. Breathing in these substances can quickly become a serious medical emergency.
Absorbed Poisons
Some poisons enter the body through the skin. This can happen through contact with plants like poison ivy or sumac, or by handling products like fertilizers and pesticides without protection.
Injected Poisons
These can come from insect stings, animal bites, or hypodermic needles and may cause an immediate reaction.

First Aid Actions

Make sure the scene is safe before helping.
Watch for visible signs like leaking bottles, strange smells, or gas.
Call 9-1-1 and Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
Put on gloves or other protective gear if available.
Collect and report the following:
- What the poison was
- How much was taken or touched
- When it happened
- The person’s age and weight
If it’s safe to do so:
- Remove contaminated clothing or jewelry
- Brush off powders using a gloved hand
- Rinse the affected skin with water for 20 minutes
- Move the person to fresh air if fumes are involved
If the person becomes unresponsive, begin CPR. Use a breathing barrier to protect yourself from exposure during rescue breaths.

This section of your Online First Aid Course helps prepare you to act quickly and safely in any poisoning emergency.

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Chapter 25: Poison Emergencies

Common Causes of Poisoning

What to Look For

Types of Poison Emergencies

First Aid Actions

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