Poison Flashcards
What is a common cause of poisoning in children?
Ingesting, inhaling, injecting, or absorbing a toxic substance
Poisoning can occur from various sources including household products, medications, and chemicals.
What factors influence the signs and symptoms of poisoning in children?
The substance, age, and weight of the pediatric patient
Symptoms can vary significantly based on these factors.
What is a potential risk for infants regarding poisoning?
Being fed a harmful substance by a sibling, parent, or caregiver
Infants can also be exposed to drugs and poisons left on floors or in unsafe environments.
How might toddlers accidentally ingest poisons?
By finding them in the home or garage
For example, they may confuse petroleum products stored in soda bottles for soda.
What substances are adolescents more likely to ingest?
Alcohol and street drugs
This can occur during parties or suicide attempts.
What are key questions to ask a parent or caregiver after a poisoning incident?
What is the substance involved?
Approximately how much was ingested?
What time did the incident occur?
Any changes in behavior or consciousness?
Was there choking or coughing?
These questions help assess the situation and the child’s condition.
What hotline can be contacted for assistance with poisoning?
National Poison Control hotline at 1-800-222-1222
This service is available 24/7.
What is the first step in treating a pediatric patient exposed to poison?
Perform external decontamination
This includes removing tablets from the mouth and washing poison from the skin.
What should be monitored in a poisoned pediatric patient?
The child’s ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation)
Monitoring breathing is crucial for supporting the patient.
What is the indication for administering activated charcoal?
If the child has ingested poison and approved by medical control or local protocol
Activated charcoal is not indicated for certain substances or conditions.
What are some common trade names for activated charcoal suspension?
- InstaChar
- Actidose
- LiquiChar
These products are used for treating poisoning in children.
What is the usual pediatric dose of activated charcoal?
1 g per kilogram of body weight, usually 12.5 to 25 g
Dosing may vary based on local protocol.
True or False: Activated charcoal is indicated for children who have ingested an acid.
False
Activated charcoal is not appropriate for certain substances like acids, alkalis, or petroleum products.
