What is the first action to take when caring for a casualty who has been poisoned?

The first action to take when caring for a casualty who has been poisoned is to keep the casualty still and stay with them. This is crucial because movement can exacerbate their condition, especially if they are experiencing symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, or confusion. Staying with the individual allows you to monitor their symptoms closely and provide reassurance, which can help reduce their anxiety. Additionally, remaining calm and providing support can be vital until professional medical help arrives.

While other actions, like administering antidotes or inducing vomiting, may seem appropriate, they can often pose risks without professional guidance. Inducing vomiting, for instance, is not always advisable, as it can lead to further complications depending on the type of poison ingested. Similarly, providing food and drink might complicate the situation in certain poisoning cases. Thus, keeping the casualty still and staying by their side ensures their safety and paves the way for appropriate medical intervention.