Poisoning Information

Local Poison Control Telephone Number (800) 362-9922

New Beginnings Pediatrics wants to ensure the safety and well-being of your child.

According to information provided by the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC), every 30 seconds a child is poisoned in the United States. Sixty percent of all poisonings occurring to children under six, with the National AG Safety Database reporting that household cleaners and medicines are common causes of most accidents.

Poisons can be ingested, inhaled or topical. They can also be substances that aren't necessarily dangerous when used properly (such as medications) but can become deadly when taken inappropriately. Many substances that are deadly can look or taste appealing to children.

Poison Prevention

To prevent a poisoning emergency in your home, store potentially dangerous products out of the reach of children and take extra care when using products that can be deadly. (For more poison prevention tips, read "The ABCs of Poison Prevention" under Parenting Corner. [NOTE: This will be a separate article tied to Poison Prevention Week, March 20-26].

Don't overlook common items such as iron supplements (the leading cause of pediatric poisoning death), cigarettes (which can cause seizures) and mouthwash (whose alcohol content can cause alcohol poisoning).

Poison Emergency

If the child is having difficulty breathing, is unconscious or showing signs of blistering on the skin, get to a health facility immediately. Bring the poisonous substance with you or note down what it was.

Otherwise, if you suspect or know your child has been poisoned, first call your local Poison Control Center, your doctor or hospital or 9-1-1. Either have the item in hand or information about it to make it easier for the medical personnel to assess the situation and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Then follow these tips:

• Swallowed poisons: Follow instructions from medical personnel.
• Inhaled poisons: Bring the child into fresh air.
• Poisons on the skin: Remove any contaminated clothing and rinse the affected area for at least 10 minutes. If the skin is blistering, get to a doctor or hospital immediately.
• Poisons in the eye: Flush the eye for at least 15 minutes, using lukewarm water.

Plan Ahead

Use the dropdown on the AAPCC website to locate your Local Poison Control Center by state, zip code or directory. The AAPCC also offers: a guide to "Preventing Poisonings in the Home"

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