First Aid For Persons Who Attempt Suicide By Poison, Sniper

The prevalence of suicide in society is no doubt on the rise. Suicidal thoughts can be attributed majorly to depression which can stem from various factors such as family, breakup, frustration, heartbreak, debt, poverty among others.

There is no ambiguity that people who have died by suicide employ several means, however, in Nigeria, the use of Sniper, a common and highly toxic insecticide is getting too popular.

While the issue of suicide needs to be tackled, people also need to get educated on what they can do to help, when they discover a suicide attempt by poison.

Allnews Nigeria spoke with a medical practitioner about the worrisome issue and possible first aid options for suicide attempts by poison, such as sniper. On how suicide victims can be assisted when discovered by family, friends, or neighbors, the medical practitioner said;

"Ensure that the patient is conscious, airway not block [by secretion], and breathing, if not, move to the hospital as soon as possible.

"If not breathing, lay the patient on his/her left side of the body and take to the hospital immediately in that position.

"If the patient is breathing, plan for transfer to hospital, meanwhile you can give antacid suspension and main antidote which is called activated charcoal. It's available over the counter." 

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He added that at the point of such emergency, vomitus inducement must be avoided and added that palm oil/local concoction or milk are not substitute for the antidote.

Also, Doctor Ayobola Adebowale, a pediatrician stated via her Twitter handle the first aid options available, when children accidentally consume different types of poisonous substances.

Sequel to my post about palm oil and its dangers when used as an antidote in children, I recieved many replies and most wanted to know what to do in case of poisoning, before getting to the hospital.
This thread will address some common poisons and what first aid care to give.

— Ayobola Adebowale (@YourBabysDoctor) March 10, 2021

Activated charcoal has enormous benefits which comes in handy when available in the first aid kit at home. Some of these benefits include; food poisoning, toxin removal, Acne, gas and bloating, and teeth whitening among others.