Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

When should a person who has swallowed poison not be induced to vomit?

1. If they are unconscious or in convulsions

2. If they are feeling dizzy

3. If they are over the age of 65

4. If they have a stomach ache

The correct answer is: If they are unconscious or in convulsions

A person who has swallowed poison should not be induced to vomit if they are unconscious or experiencing convulsions due to significant risks associated with these conditions. When an individual is unconscious, there is a danger of aspiration, where the vomit could be inhaled into the lungs, leading to choking or serious respiratory complications. Similarly, in the case of convulsions, there is an increased risk of airway obstruction, choking, and further injury. In contrast, the other mentioned conditions, such as feeling dizzy, being over the age of 65, or having a stomach ache, do not present the same immediate and severe risks as loss of consciousness or convulsions. These situations may still require medical attention or warrant caution, but they are not as critical as the risk posed by inducing vomiting in a person who is unable to protect their airway due to unconsciousness or seizures. This is why the safest course of action in the case of poisoning is to avoid inducing vomiting under these serious conditions.