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Poison center utilization in nosocomial toxicologic exposures: a prospective study
J Scalise1, F Harchelroad, B Dean
1Pittsburgh Poison Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, PA 15213.
Veterinary and Human Toxicology
|April 1, 1989
Summary
Accidental toxicologic exposures in health care facilities (HCFs) can lead to harm and legal issues. Prompt poison center consultation aids healthcare providers in managing these therapeutic misadventures effectively.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Patient Safety
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Accidental toxicologic exposures within health care facilities (HCFs) pose significant risks, including increased morbidity, mortality, and medicolegal liability.
- Early recognition and intervention are crucial for mitigating adverse outcomes from these events.
Observation:
- A twelve-month period of toxicologic exposures reported to a poison center was analyzed.
- Six categories of therapeutic misadventure were identified and quantified.
Findings:
- The primary cause of accidental exposures was the proximity of harmful substances to confused individuals (54%).
- Other significant categories included wrong medication (18%), and incorrect dose or route (16%).
- Lack of patient education (2%) and incorrect equipment management (4%) were less frequent causes.
Implications:
- Increased awareness of poison center capabilities can enhance the management of therapeutic misadventures.
- Data highlights the need for improved environmental safety and patient education protocols in HCFs.
- Poison centers serve as vital resources for healthcare providers managing toxicologic exposures.