Most new parents I know child proof their home immediately. Many do so before the baby even arrives. Electrical outlets are covered and cabinets get child proof latches. Breakables get move up higher and electrical cords are secured. Baby gates are purchased. But preparation for accidental poisoning often is overlooked. It is simple to do. First and foremost, post the number for poison control on your refrigerator. National Poison Controls # is 1-800-222-1222. This will connect you to the nearest poison control center. If your child eats anything you are unsure of the safety of, call them. They don't mind and would rather you call for something non-harmful than not call for something deadly. Keep all cleaning supplies, medicine, vitamins, alcohol and other known toxins up high if possible and in a cabinet or closet with a child safety lock. Be aware that shampoos and conditioners can be toxic. The deodorizing disks used in diaper pails are often very poisonous. Baby creams and ointments should be securely put away when not in use. Know all of the plants in your home and yard and know which are poisonous. If the plant can be fatal, you may want to remove it from your yard.
Watch your young children closely AT ALL TIMES. It only takes a few seconds for a child to grab and ingest something. Most fatal poisonings in children occur at ages 6 and under. Even with all the right precautions, your child may eat something questionable. I was on a first name basis with poison control with one of my children! Chalk, air freshener (which I had just set down and my child snatched it up and shot a mouthful before I could grab it), plants, etc. Some children put everything in their mouths. Everywhere you go. It happens. Don't panic. If it is a packaged substance, quickly scan the label for warnings. If you don't see one call poison control just to be sure. If it is a plant you know is toxic, call poison control for instructions. Be on the alert for ant poisons in the yard, weeds that have been sprayed with weed killer and mothballs at "Aunt Darling's" house. Don't assume your child will never go in the shop or garage, secure all dangerous items there.
Never treat a poisoning on your own. Don't let the child eat or drink anything if you suspect poisoning until you talk to the poison control center. Treatments vary depending on the substance and you don't want to do anything that might make it worse or speed it up in your child's system.
If you call poison control center be prepared to give the child's name, age, and weight, the substance ingested and suspected quantity as well as the time the substance was ingested. They will also ask for your name and phone number. Follow their instructions if you need to take action! Stay safe and be prepared.
The Momma
My grandson recently ate several of the gel pellets found in diapers. They are not toxic. The biggest risk is choking, if the pellets start swelling while in the throat, and that would happen quickly. If your child has eaten some of these pellets and is able to breathe and talk ok, he/she will be fine. (we called poison control to be sure) :)
ReplyDeleteThe Momma