Pediatric Single-Dose Fatal Ingestions Follow-up
- Author: Cynthia L Morris-Kukoski, PharmD; Chief Editor: Timothy E Corden, MD more...
Further Inpatient Care
- Tailor inpatient treatment to the patient's condition.
Transfer
- Transfer may be required for patients whose needs exceed the capability of the hospital providing initial treatment (eg, a patient who needs hemodialysis).
Deterrence/Prevention
- Public education about the potentially fatal hazards posed by chemicals, medications, and common cleaning compounds is the key to prevention. Basic steps include the following:
- Keep hazardous and toxic substances in their original containers. Containers should be appropriately marked.
- Never store food near toxic substances.
- Keep hazardous and toxic compounds in a secure place out of the reach of children.
- Parents and the public should know how to contact the regional poison control center for suspected toxic ingestions.
Complications
- Complications depend on the substance ingested and may include death or permanent neurologic disability.
Prognosis
- Prognosis depends on the ingested substance and the amount of time between ingestion and initiation of medical care.
Patient Education
- See Deterrence/Prevention.
- For excellent patient education resources, visit eMedicine's Substance Abuse Center and Poisoning - First Aid and Emergency Center. Also, see eMedicine's patient education articles Poisoning, Drug Overdose, Activated Charcoal, and Poison Proofing Your Home.
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