Poisoning: Prevention
- Remember to keep drugs and chemicals locked up or out of
reach of children. Think about where you keep drain
cleaners, furniture polish, drugs, and insecticides.
These are the most common dangerous poisons.
- Keep alcoholic beverages also out of a child's reach.
Alcoholic beverages have caused serious poisonings. As
little as 3 ounces of hard liquor can kill a 2-year-old
child. Remember that most mouthwashes contain 15% to
25%.
- Whenever you or your child is prescribed a new drug,
remember to keep the safety cap on and make sure that you
are giving the right dose.
- Don't leave drugs on countertops, especially when you are
called away to the door or telephone.
- Don't leave drugs in a purse because children often
search them for candy or gum. When you have guests, keep
purses out of reach of children.
- Always read the label before giving any medicine. Be
sure it's the right drug and that you are giving the
correct dosage. Don't give medicines in the dark.
- Know the names of all your houseplants and remove any
(for example, Dieffenbachia) that could cause sickness
other than vomiting or diarrhea. Teach your child never
to put leaves, stems, seeds, or berries from any plant
into her mouth without your permission.
- Don't store any chemicals in soft drink bottles. Don't
put gasoline into any type of food or beverage container.
- Keep the telephone number of the Poison Control Center
handy.
- Remember that kids often get into poisons simply to
satisfy their curiosity. Telling a young child not to
put something in their mouth is not enough to prevent
poisoning. To prevent poisonings, parents have to
consistently supervise where young children are and what
they are doing.
Written by B.D. Schmitt, M.D., author of "Your Child's Health," Bantam Books.
Published originally by McKesson Health Solutions LLC.
Adapted by Premier Care Pediatrics, PA.
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to
change as new health information becomes available. The
information is intended to inform and educate and is not a
replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.