YOUR CHI’S HEALTH CARE: PREVENTING POISONING
In Australia 10% of toddlers receive medical attention for poisoning before their fourth birthday. One to 4 year olds have a very high risk of accidental poisoning, due to their inquisitive natures coupled with their lack of understanding of danger. The severity of the effects of poisoning depends on many factors, not just on the type of poison taken. The age, weight and health of the child, as well as the amount and strength of the poison, are all important factors.
There are many substances around the house which can be poisonous. These include medicines, household cleaners, alcoholic drinks, insecticides and plants. Australia also has more than its fair share of poisonous creatures which can inflict dangerous bites and stings.
Poisons can enter the body via various routes. They can be swallowed, breathed in, splashed in the eyes or on the skin, or transmitted via bites of venomous creatures. There are basic first aid measures for each of these circumstances It is well worth your while to read them now, so that you are prepared for any emergency.
The list given below of things to do will greatly reduce the likelihood of poisoning occurring. Read it now.
• Store medicines in their original containers and away from household products. Never store medicines in food or drink containers. If medicines need to be kept in the fridge, make sure you place them on the top shelf at the back. Seal them inside a separate container.
• Do not put several different medications into the same container.
• Check the label carefully on the product before using it so that you do not confuse one substance for another. Check expiry dates and dosages on medicines.
• Always use substances that have child resistant packaging.
• Do not take medicines in front of children — children tend to copy adults.
• Call medicines by their real name — they are not cute little lollies.
• Keep all handbags out of reach of children — they often contain medications.
• Do not let your child take someone else’s medications. Even one tablet may cause serious side effects.
• Clean out your medicine cabinet every three months, and take old medications to a pharmacy for disposal, or flush them properly down the toilet. Do not dispose of old medications in a rubbish bin.
• Never mix cleaning products together. Dangerous chemical reactions can occur.
• Rinse empty containers before discarding them.
• Make sure areas are well ventilated when using sprays, paints or volatile chemicals. Wear protective clothing, a mask and gloves.
• Keep all alcoholic drinks in a locked cabinet.
Always contact your doctor or Poisons Information Centre if you have any questions or concerns.
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