Poison center value: an assessment by the professionals who use it

Positive relationships between the poison center and hospitals are important to patient treatment. In order to effectively serve those health care facilities participating in such an interdependent relationship, it is necessary to evaluate dynamics at the interactive crux--the Registered Nurse (RN) and the Poison Information Specialist (PIS). To achieve this, a satisfaction, analysis/knowledge, and opinion questionnaire was designed and sent to RNs staffing Emergency Departments (EDs) and Intensive Care Units (ICUs) in the poison center service area. 518 RNs responded for a 55% response rate. One hundred percent of the 40 ED nursing managers responding consider the poison center of great or significant value in toxicologic management in both theory and experience. Seventy-one percent assert it is of great assistance in actual practice. Greater than 95% of the 134 staff ED Rn's responded in a similar manner. Slightly more than 85% of all surveyed felt that they communicate with a PIS; however, their perception of the professional training of the PIS varied from that of an operator to an administrative staff person. A variety of other questionnaire data is addressed. Application of this information to education/reeducation will promote improved communication and compliance with consumer hospitals, particularly those contributing financially to the poison center.