If a victim is unconscious after pesticide exposure, what is the recommended course of action?

• A. Leave them in the same position and call for help.
• B. Remove contaminated clothing and position them in a semi-prone position; seek medical help.
• C. Give them food and water.
• D. Shake them gently to wake them up.

Answer: (B)

When someone is unconscious after pesticide exposure, the immediate priority is protecting their airway and getting professional help quickly. An unconscious person can easily block their airway or choke on saliva, vomit, or any remaining liquid, so placing them in the recovery position helps keep the airway open and allows fluids to drain away from the airway. Removing contaminated clothing reduces ongoing exposure and helps medical responders assess and treat the person more safely.

Giving food or water isn’t appropriate because an unconscious person cannot swallow safely and could choke or aspirate. Shaking them to wake them up can cause injury and doesn’t reliably restore consciousness. Simply leaving them in place without taking steps to protect the airway and remove contamination delays critical care.

After repositioning, call emergency services and monitor breathing and responsiveness. If trained and the person stops breathing, begin CPR and continue until help arrives. Keep them warm and avoid giving anything by mouth until professionals provide further instructions.