Poison BY Ethylene Glycol (antifreeze)
Ethylene glycol is used extensively in industry as a solvent. In pure form it is used as a coolant and antifreeze for cars. It is a sweet, colorless, slightly syrupy liquid. When taken by mouth it causes a form of drunkenness but with no odor of alcohol on the breath. Symptoms include vomiting, pain in the abdomen, rapid breathing, rapid pulse, elevated blood pressure, and evidences of damage to the kidneys. When as much as a third of a glass (80 ml.) has been ingested, death may occur within 12 to 36 hours.
WHAT TO DO
Arrange for professional care and hospitalization at the earliest possible moment. Rinse out the victim's stomach by causing him to vomit. (See To Induce Vomiting under PROCEDURE E, Give abundant water to drink. Keep the victim warm; use artificial respiration if necessary to keep him breathing and waft a stream of pure oxygen gas in front of his nose if oxygen is available.
