Paediatric Toxicology Considerations

Author: Lauren Fraser / Editor: Steven Bland / Reviewer: Michael Perry, Raghaventhar Manikandan / Codes: A4 / Published: 07/08/2023

Presentation of children to the emergency department (ED) by concerned parents after a potential ingestion of a substance is common. The majority of these cases are minor, requiring only reassurance after a brief period of observation. Concerning features in the history and examination are discussed and key management points relating to paediatric toxicology are demonstrated.

After completing this session you will be able to:

• Describe the epidemiology of paediatric poisoning
• Describe the anatomical, physiological and developmental differences that influence paediatric toxicological presentations
• Describe the initial assessment of a paediatric toxicology case
• Describe the difference in managing a paediatric toxicology case including safeguarding issues

References

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