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Poisoning in a paediatric hospital.
1Accident and Emergency Department, The Children's University Hospital, Temple Street, Dublin, Ireland. imranfarhana@eircom.net
Irish Journal of Medical Science
|August 22, 2003
Summary
Childhood poisoning is common, with most cases accidental and occurring at home. While serious toxicity is rare, intentional poisonings are increasing in adolescents, highlighting the need for prevention education.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Emergency Medicine
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Poisoning represents a significant cause of illness and death in children and adolescents.
- Pharmaceuticals and household items are the primary culprits in pediatric poisoning incidents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics of poisoning cases managed in a pediatric hospital setting.
- To analyze demographic factors, toxin types, and outcomes of pediatric poisoning.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of poisoning cases presented to the Accident and Emergency (A&E) department of a single hospital.
- Inclusion criteria: children aged 0-15 years.
- Categorization of cases into accidental or intentional (with or without suicidal intent).
Main Results:
- 148 poisoning cases were documented; 47% were male.
- 86% of ingestions were accidental, predominantly in children aged 1-4 years (74%).
- Intentional poisonings accounted for 14% of cases, with suicidal intent observed in adolescents aged 12+.
Conclusions:
- Unintentional pediatric poisonings rarely lead to severe toxicity or mortality.
- A rise in intentional poisonings and alcohol abuse among adolescents is noted.
- Emphasizes the importance of poison prevention strategies, including parental education on childproofing environments and incorporating prevention into well-child visits.