General Principles of Treatment

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Determine details of the poisoning:

  • What was the poison?
  • When did the poisoning take place?
  • What kind of poisoning took place?

e.g., by swallowing, inhalation, contact with the skin or eyes

  • How much was taken?
  • What has been performed at home or in the community since the poisoning?
  • Was it deliberate or accidental?

Prevent further exposure to the poison (if possible)

  • Remove contaminated clothing
  • Wash contaminated skin with soap and lots of cold water

Note: Non-accidental injury or neglect should be considered in all cases of poisoning in children., The social workers may need to be involved to assess the social circumstances and take the necessary steps to ensure the child is not at risk of further incidences.

GENERAL MANAGEMENT

General management involves supportive care:

  • Airway: Clear the airway
  • Breathing: Maintain respiration, may need to support breathing (use bag and mask if necessary. Consider need for intubation and ventilation)
  • Circulation: Maintain BP/treat shock, maintain fluid balance, monitor fluid intake and output, elevate legs, in refractory shock discuss with anesthetist
  • Disability: Monitor sugar levels
  • Exposure: Conserve body heat (if necessary), remove clothes (in case of contamination)