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Poisonous plant identification: a comparison of databases designed for veterinary use
J Cornell1, P Weathers, M Pokras
1Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, MA 01609, USA.
Veterinary and Human Toxicology
|October 1, 1995
Summary
Medical practitioners can use computer databases for identifying poisonous plants. This study reviews four such databases, detailing their features and search functions to aid in clinical decision-making.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Medical Informatics
- Botany
Background:
- Accurate identification of poisonous plants is crucial for effective medical treatment.
- Medical practitioners require accessible tools for rapid plant identification in clinical settings.
- Existing resources for poisonous plant identification may not be widely known or utilized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To enhance medical practitioners' awareness of available computer resources for poisonous plant identification.
- To provide an overview of the features and search capabilities of key poisonous plant identification databases.
- To facilitate informed selection and use of digital tools in managing plant-related poisonings.
Main Methods:
- Conducted telephone interviews with authors of poisonous plant identification databases.
- Performed hands-on testing and evaluation of database software.
- Analyzed general features and specific search functionalities of selected databases.
Main Results:
- Identified and reviewed four distinct poisonous plant identification databases.
- Documented the general characteristics of each database.
- Assessed the specific search functionalities and user interface of each reviewed resource.
Conclusions:
- Computer databases offer valuable resources for poisonous plant identification.
- Awareness and utilization of these databases can improve clinical management of plant poisonings.
- Further exploration of digital tools is recommended for medical practitioners.