Preventing Pediatric Poisonings WHAM
W hat risks are observed on scene? H ow can we keep from coming back? A ction to take to prevent future injuries M aterials to leave behind WHAM
Pediatric Poisoning 53% of poison exposures occur to kids under 6 y.o. In Washington, poisoning deaths among young children are rare. However, when combined with intentional poisoning, it is the second leading cause of injury hospitalizations for children 0-17 years. During in Pierce Co. there were 263 poison-related hospitalizations for children <18 y.o. Slightly more than half (51.7%) were intentional.
Washington Poison Center’s Top 5 Exposure Calls (2005) Ibuprofen Diaper care/rash products Acetaminophen (generic Tylenol) Anti-depressants Hypochlorite (chlorine bleach)
The 5 “rights” of med safety The right person The right dose The right medicine The right time The right route
You are called to a chaotic scene at a home for an elderly woman who has fallen. The patient was visiting her son and his three small children. The son suddenly realizes that he has lost track of his 2-year-old. You see the child picking some pills up off the floor. What risks are observed on scene?
How can we keep from coming back?
Remind parent to keep all medication out of reach of children Remind parents that even if their home is “child proofed,” grandparents’ homes and others may not be Keep all meds and cleaning products in original containers Inform parent of Poison Control number and information Action to take to prevent further injuries
Utilize WHAM folder on rig Washington Poison Center “Prevention & Treatment Guide – Poisons” (English and Spanish) Safe Kids “Where’s Your Medicine” booklet (English and Spanish) Washington Poison Center number stickers Materials to leave behind
Further info on Preventing Accidental Poisoning Links: Washington Poison Center website: Washington Poison Center offers tours to EMTs and paramedics—sign up online or call
WHAM developed by: Central Pierce Fire & Rescue City of DuPont Fire Department Gig Harbor Fire & Medic One Safe Kids Pierce County Tacoma-Pierce County Health Dept. With funding from: West Region EMS & Trauma Care Council