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Ammonia
Definition:
Poisoning from an exposure to ammonia.

Poisonous Ingredient:
  • ammonia
Where Found:
  • ammonia
  • some household cleaners
  • some liniments
  • some fertilizers
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.
Symptoms:
Home Treatment:
DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING.

If the ammonia is on the skin or in the eye, flush with lots of water for at least 15 minutes. If the ammonia was swallowed, give milk or water to dilute it. If the ammonia has been inhaled, take the person to fresh air.
Before Calling Emergency:
Determine the following information:
  • the patient's age, weight, and condition
  • the name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
  • the time it was swallowed
  • the amount swallowed
Poison Control, or a local emergency number:
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.
What to expect at the emergency room:
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed.
  • Give fluids to dilute the poison.
  • Use gastric lavage.
  • Treat the symptoms.
Expectations (prognosis):
Survival past 48 hours usually indicates recovery will occur. If chemical burns occurred in the eye, they frequently heal; however, permanent blindness may result.
Review Date: 1/14/2002
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial.
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