After applying PPE yourself, what is the first step taken when administering first aid to a person suspected of pesticide poisoning?

After applying PPE yourself, what is the first step taken when administering first aid to a person suspected of pesticide poisoning?

• A. Rinse exposed skin with water
• B. Call emergency services
• C. Remove contaminated clothing
• D. Move them away from the source

Answer: (D)

Moving the person away from the pesticide source is the immediate priority after you’ve donned PPE. This step stops the ongoing exposure—whether through inhalation, skin contact, or absorption—so you’re reducing further harm to them while you prepare to provide care. Once they’re in a safer area, you can begin decontamination (such as removing contaminated clothing and rinsing exposed skin) and seek emergency help if needed. Rinsing or removing clothing are essential, but they come after you’ve removed them from the source to prevent more pesticide from reaching their skin or lungs.

Moving the person away from the pesticide source is the immediate priority after you’ve donned PPE. This step stops the ongoing exposure—whether through inhalation, skin contact, or absorption—so you’re reducing further harm to them while you prepare to provide care. Once they’re in a safer area, you can begin decontamination (such as removing contaminated clothing and rinsing exposed skin) and seek emergency help if needed. Rinsing or removing clothing are essential, but they come after you’ve removed them from the source to prevent more pesticide from reaching their skin or lungs.