What should EMS personnel do if a patient has swallowed a caustic substance?

When a patient has ingested a caustic substance, the priority for EMS personnel is to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the patient. Flushing the gastrointestinal tract with water helps to dilute and possibly neutralize the caustic material, reducing the risk of further injury to the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, and stomach. This action is crucial as many caustic substances can cause severe burns or damage if left untreated.

Seeking immediate medical help is also essential because caustic ingestions can lead to serious complications, and professional evaluation and treatment are often necessary. Emergency medical personnel should prepare to provide all relevant information to the healthcare providers, including the substance ingested and the amount, which will guide appropriate medical interventions.

Administering activated charcoal is not recommended in cases of caustic ingestion, as it has limited effectiveness for these substances and can complicate the situation. Encouraging vomiting is also unsafe, as it can lead to additional injury and increase the risk of aspiration. Monitoring vital signs is important but does not address the immediate need for dilution of the caustic substance and obtaining medical assistance.