If a paramedic responds to a patient who ingested an unknown substance, what is the recommended action?

When a paramedic responds to a patient who has ingested an unknown substance, the best immediate action is to contact poison control. This is crucial because poison control has access to detailed information about various toxic agents, including their effects and proper treatment protocols. They can provide guidance on how to manage the situation based on the specific substance involved, which may include recommendations for supportive care, antidotes, or other critical interventions.

By reaching out to poison control right away, the paramedic can receive real-time, specialized advice that is tailored to the patient's specific circumstances and the unknown substance. This action helps ensure that the patient receives the most appropriate care possible, based on evidence and established protocols.

While other actions like administering activated charcoal might seem appropriate in some cases, it is not recommended to do so without knowing the specific substance ingested because activated charcoal is contraindicated for certain toxins. Additionally, while initiating CPR is a lifesaving measure for patients in cardiac arrest, it would not directly address the poisoning issue. Transport to the nearest hospital is also important, but it should follow the initial consultation with poison control to ensure that the paramedic is taking the best informed steps during the transport process.