Poisoning
Poisoning can be intentional or unintentional, and unfortunately we are seeing more and more intentional poisonings, these can be in both adults and children.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, poisoning is the leading cause of death in children aged 0-14 years in Australia. In 2019, there were a total of 433 deaths due to poisoning among children aged 0-14 years, accounting for 17% of all deaths in this age group. These deaths included both intentional and accidental. The main causes of death due to poisoning were medicines (37%), motor vehicle exhaust gases (34%), alcohol (10%), and poisons (8%).
The Poisons Information Line is a 24-hour telephone helpline for information on poisons, drug overdoses, and the treatment of poisoning. It is run by the Australian Poisons Information Service, a free service in Australia that is available to anyone seeking advice on the management of poisoning. The helpline can be contacted on 13 11 26 from anywhere in Australia, and as a Paramedic, I use this all the time. The call takers are professional and very informative and will inform you on whether to call and ambulance or not, what symptoms to look out for, what the toxic levels are…and the list goes on. I can not speak highly enough of this service.
If you suspect a poisoning has occurred, either intentional or accidental, the following steps must be taken:
Find out what has been taken, how much and when. Look for evidence of empty bottle and packets.
Call the Poisons Information Service on 131126. Seek prompt medical advice.
Call 000 for an ambulance, if required.
Treat and Monitor, follow the first aid guidelines you were taught in your first aid course.
Book a first aid course so you know exactly what to do in this situation.
Download your FREE Poisoning First Aid Chart and keep in your first aid kit for those times you need it in an emergency.