a. Signs/Symptoms of Vegetation Poisoning. Included are the following:
(1)
Sudden onset, occurring within two hours of ingestion.
(2)
Confusion.
(3)
Excitement.
(4)
Thirst.
(5)
Nausea and vomiting.
(6)
Diarrhea.
(7)
Wheezing and salivation.
(8)
Slow pulse.
(9)
Small pupils.
(10) Tremors, weakness, collapse, and possibly death.
b. Treatment of Vegetation Poisoning.
(1) Cleanse the system by inducing vomiting, gastric lavage to wash the
stomach cavity, and cathartic medication to evacuate the contents of the intestines.
(2) Atropine, a specific antidote to the effects of anticholinergic plants, may
be given to reverse specific symptoms. The dosage is one to two milligrams
subcutaneously repeated every 30 minutes as required.
(3)
Administer barbiturates to stimulate the patient's system.
(4)
Give fluids intravenously or orally.
(5)
Treat the patient for shock.
(6) Check with your local poison control center for plant poisoning other
than mushrooms. Bring a sample of the plant ingested to the hospital with the patient.
MD0581
4-15