Accidental ingestion of hand sanitizer is a serious medical emergency. Hand sanitizer, typically containing high concentrations of ethanol (ethyl alcohol) or isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol), can cause significant harm if swallowed. Immediate action is crucial. This guide outlines the steps to take if you or someone you know accidentally drinks hand sanitizer.
What are the Dangers of Ingesting Hand Sanitizer?
Hand sanitizer's primary ingredient, alcohol, is toxic when ingested in large quantities. The amount of alcohol in hand sanitizer is much higher than in alcoholic beverages, making accidental consumption particularly dangerous. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and life-threatening, depending on the amount ingested and the individual's health.
Common Symptoms of Hand Sanitizer Ingestion:
- Nausea and Vomiting: These are often the first signs of alcohol poisoning.
- Dizziness and Headache: Alcohol affects the central nervous system, leading to these symptoms.
- Confusion and Disorientation: Higher levels of alcohol ingestion can cause significant cognitive impairment.
- Difficulty Breathing: Severe cases can impair respiratory function.
- Seizures: Alcohol poisoning can trigger seizures, a serious medical emergency.
- Loss of Consciousness: In severe cases, unconsciousness can occur.
- Coma: This is a life-threatening complication of alcohol poisoning.
What to Do Immediately After Ingesting Hand Sanitizer:
1. Call for Help Immediately: This is the most crucial step. Contact your local emergency services (911 in the US, 999 in the UK, or your country's equivalent) immediately. Do not delay seeking medical attention.
2. Identify the Hand Sanitizer: If possible, find the hand sanitizer container and note the brand name, ingredients, and the percentage of alcohol content. This information will be crucial for medical professionals.
3. Do Not Induce Vomiting: Unless specifically instructed by emergency medical personnel, do not attempt to induce vomiting. This can cause further harm, especially if the sanitizer contains other harmful chemicals.
4. Keep the Person Awake and Monitor Breathing: If the person is conscious, keep them awake and monitor their breathing. If their breathing becomes shallow or stops, begin CPR if you are trained.
5. Follow Medical Professionals' Instructions: Once emergency services arrive, follow their instructions carefully. They will assess the situation and provide appropriate medical care.
What Happens After You Seek Medical Attention?
Medical professionals will likely conduct a thorough examination to assess the severity of the ingestion. Treatment may include:
- Stomach Pumping (Gastric Lavage): This procedure removes the contents of the stomach.
- Activated Charcoal: This helps absorb the alcohol and other toxins in the body.
- Supportive Care: This may involve intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, and monitoring vital signs.
What if the Ingestion Involved a Child?
Accidental ingestion of hand sanitizer by children is particularly concerning. Children are more vulnerable to the toxic effects of alcohol and other ingredients. Follow the steps above, and emphasize the importance of immediate medical attention. The poison control center is an excellent resource in such cases.
How to Prevent Accidental Hand Sanitizer Ingestion:
- Store Hand Sanitizer Out of Reach: Keep hand sanitizer in a high cabinet or other location inaccessible to children and pets.
- Use Child-Resistant Containers: Opt for hand sanitizers in child-resistant containers, which are designed to prevent young children from opening them.
- Clearly Label Containers: Always ensure hand sanitizer containers are clearly labeled to avoid confusion with other liquids.
- Educate Children About Hand Sanitizer: Teach children about the dangers of ingesting hand sanitizer.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of a medical professional for any questions about your particular circumstances. This is not a substitute for professional medical care.
