First aid treatment of poisoning in children

Fact Checked

Poisoning in children happens in ages 1 to 4 years old, which are in the mouthing stage. It is the parent and caregivers job to protect the child from eating or touching things that are harmful to them and can cause poisoning. Any harmful material should be properly kept away from small children. There are certain considerations to bear in mind that can help prevent poisoning among children.

Useful tips to avoid poisoning

1. Never leave a poisonous product unattended in the presence of children, even for only a moment. Do not be distracted by a doorbell, phone call or some other interruptions.
2. Be aware of common substances that contain poison, like house plants, and some cosmetics.
3. Using childproof latches on the cupboards
4. Never store poisonous materials or chemicals in a food container.
5. Do not leave alcohol within reach of a child
6. Read product labels for caution statements, how to use and first aid instructions.
7. Keep the number of a local poison control center near the phone.
8. Medications, vitamins and other supplements can be poisonous to children if swallowed accidentally. They should be placed in medicine cabinets and out of reach of children.

Symptoms of poisoning in children

• Unusual skin rashes or burns with tears, holes or stain on a child’s clothing can indicate that he/she has been in contact with poisonous household chemicals. Remove the clothing and rinse the skin with warm water for 15 minutes.
• If the child has a strange smell in the mouth, and some unusual marks around the mouth, it may be caused by ingesting poisonous liquids or eating berries or leaves of poisonous plants.
• There is lethargy and drowsiness caused by carbon monoxide poisoning.
• The child has trouble breathing, a throat pain, vomiting and drooling.

First aid treatment for poisoning in children

1. Identify what the child has come in contact with, what he touched or ingested and the estimated amount.
2. If the child has inhaled carbon monoxide or any kind of poisonous gases, take the child outside, especially in areas where there is plenty of air so that the child can inhale fresh air.
3. If a poison contaminates the skin of the child, like a splash of muriatic acid in the skin, it causes reddening of the skin. Remove the clothing of the child and rinse immediately the affected area with running water for 20 minutes.
4. If a poison got into his/her eyes, you have to rinse the eyes with water for 20 minutes.
5. If a child suffers from sun poisoning, let him/her drink plenty of fluids, applying aloe Vera on the skin, give the child ice compress, a cool water bath and pain reliever medications.
6. Allow the child to rest once appropriate measures are given. In severe cases of poisoning, bring the child to the emergency department.