What should I do in case of rat poison poisoning? - briefly
Contact emergency medical services or your local poison‑control center right away, give them the product name and amount involved, and follow their guidance without trying to induce vomiting. If you can, bring the container or label with you to assist treatment.
What should I do in case of rat poison poisoning? - in detail
If a person has ingested anticoagulant rodenticide or another type of rat bait, immediate actions can determine the outcome.
First, call emergency services (911 or local number) and describe the situation clearly: type of poison if known, amount consumed, time of exposure, and the victim’s age and weight. While waiting for responders, do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a medical professional.
If the product label or safety data sheet indicates that the substance is a vitamin K antagonist (e.g., warfarin‑based baits), administer activated charcoal if it is available and the victim is conscious, breathing, and able to swallow. A standard dose is 1 g/kg of body weight, not exceeding 50 g, mixed with water to a slurry and given orally. This reduces absorption of the toxin from the gastrointestinal tract.
Monitor vital signs continuously: pulse, breathing rate, blood pressure, and level of consciousness. Look for signs of internal bleeding such as gum bleeding, blood in urine or stool, bruising, or prolonged nosebleeds. If any of these appear, inform the dispatcher and medical personnel.
When professional help arrives, they will likely start intravenous vitamin K1 (phytonadione) therapy to counteract the anticoagulant effect. The dosage depends on the severity of coagulopathy, typically 10 mg every 6 hours initially, then adjusted based on laboratory coagulation tests (PT/INR). Supportive care may include blood transfusions, fresh frozen plasma, or prothrombin complex concentrate to restore clotting factors quickly.
After stabilization, the patient should undergo serial blood tests (PT, INR, aPTT, platelet count, liver function) for at least 48 hours, because delayed toxicity is common with these agents. Follow‑up care may require oral vitamin K1 for several weeks to ensure complete reversal.
If the poison is a non‑anticoagulant (e.g., bromethalin, zinc phosphide, or cholecalciferol), treatment differs. For bromethalin, there is no specific antidote; supportive measures focus on controlling seizures and maintaining airway protection. Zinc phosphide releases phosphine gas upon contact with stomach acid; immediate decontamination with activated charcoal is ineffective, and management is supportive, emphasizing respiratory and cardiovascular stabilization. Cholecalciferol toxicity leads to hypercalcemia; aggressive hydration, diuretics, and bisphosphonates may be required.
In all cases, retain the product container or label for identification, and provide it to healthcare providers. Document the exact time of ingestion and any attempts at self‑treatment, as this information guides dosing and monitoring decisions.
Key actions summarized:
- Call emergency services; give precise details.
- Avoid vomiting unless directed by professionals.
- Give activated charcoal (1 g/kg) for anticoagulant baits if the victim can swallow.
- Observe for bleeding or neurological symptoms; report immediately.
- Expect intravenous vitamin K1 therapy for anticoagulant poisoning.
- Undergo repeated coagulation testing for at least two days.
- For non‑anticoagulant poisons, focus on supportive care tailored to the toxin’s mechanism.
- Preserve the poison’s packaging for medical review.
Prompt, accurate response and coordinated medical treatment are essential to prevent severe hemorrhage or organ damage.