If you suspect that a conscious person has been poisoned, who should you contact?

When you suspect that a conscious individual has been poisoned, contacting the poison control center is the most appropriate course of action. The poison control center is staffed by trained professionals who specialize in toxicology and can provide immediate guidance on how to handle the situation based on the type of poison, the amount ingested, and the person's condition. They offer critical, life-saving information tailored to the specific circumstances, including symptoms to watch for and whether any immediate treatment is needed.

Reaching out to a local hospital might not provide the immediate and specific information necessary for managing the poisoning prior to the person's arrival there, while calling an ambulance service might delay critical advice that could be provided over the phone by the poison control center. Friends or family members, while they may be supportive, do not have the expertise to handle such emergencies effectively. It is crucial to consult the specialists at the poison control center to ensure the best outcome for the individual affected.