If you know someone has swallowed poison, should you administer ipecac syrup or induce vomiting?

Answer: B — False

Administering ipecac syrup or inducing vomiting is generally not recommended in cases of suspected poison ingestion. The primary reason for this is that inducing vomiting can sometimes cause more harm than good, depending on the type of poison swallowed. For certain substances, such as caustic agents (strong acids or bases) or petroleum products, vomiting can lead to further damage to the esophagus and airway if the substance re-enters the body. Additionally, not all poisons can be effectively expelled by vomiting; some may be absorbed rapidly into the bloodstream regardless of whether vomiting occurs. This can lead to a dangerous delay in getting appropriate medical treatment. Instead, the recommended course of action is to seek immediate medical attention. The medical professionals can determine the best treatment and whether activated charcoal, which can absorb some toxins, is appropriate. In summary, avoiding the induction of vomiting is vital to prevent further harm and facilitate an effective response to poisoning cases, which reinforces the validity of the chosen answer.