MDARD Michigan Core Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

Under what condition should you NEVER induce vomiting if a pesticide is swallowed?

1. When the victim is conscious

2. When the victim has ingested a corrosive poison

3. When the label instructs to induce vomiting

4. When a mild pesticide is ingested

The correct answer is: When the victim has ingested a corrosive poison

Inducing vomiting can lead to serious harm when a victim has ingested a corrosive poison. Corrosive substances can cause severe damage to the mouth, throat, and esophagus on their way back up if vomiting is induced. Rather than helping, inducing vomiting could exacerbate the injury caused by the corrosive item, potentially leading to more severe complications such as choking or additional tissue damage. In this context, it is critical to recognize the chemical nature of the ingested substance. Proper first aid directives often specify that for corrosive materials, immediate medical assistance should be sought instead of inducing vomiting.