Specimen Collection
The timing of specimen collection is important for accurate interpretation of laboratory results. The pharmacokinetic characteristics of a substance dictate when the samples should be obtained. This is important when quantitative evaluation is needed.
Toxicology screening should include blood and urine tests for the suspected poison.

Blood: 5-10 mL of heparinized and clotted samples. Test tubes should be kept in ice.
Urine: 200 mL, preferably the first void.

Specimens should be placed in a sealed container and stored in a freezer (-20^oC) if these cannot be examined right away.
When interpreting laboratory results, the clinician should take into consideration factors such as intake of other drugs and existing medical conditions. These factors may alter the effect of the poison.

General Laboratory Examinations
General laboratory examinations must be done rationally.
Complete blood count (CBC) - will give information as to presence of anemia and leukocytosis.
Urinalysis - should include urine pH and specific gravity to determine baseline levels.
FBS, BUN, Creatinine, and electrolyte determination - to detect any metabolic abnormalities.
ABG - to detect acid-base disturbances and hypoxemia.
ECG - to detect arrhythmias.
Liver function tests and prothrombin time - important in assessing hepatotoxicity.
Upright chest X-ray - necessary for diagnosing aspiration pneumonia, pulmonary edema or perforated ulcer.