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Poisoning

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Primary Care Pediatricians

Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters has been the region’s most trusted name in pediatric care for more than 50 years. But these days, we’re much More Than a Hospital. Through a network of dedicated pediatric providers who work in over two dozen locations throughout the region, CHKD provides all the care kids need.

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Of the 5,000 people who die of accidental poisoning in the U.S. each year, about 70 percent are children under 5 years of age. Young children are curious, fast, and fearless and will put anything in their mouths. Most childhood deaths caused by poisoning are from drugs, household chemicals, and toxic fumes.

Children explore the world at their eye level, often finding paints, pesticides, batteries, petroleum products, drain openers, and detergents. Small items like detergent pods, that can resemble candy, and button batteries, that are the size of a coin, can be especially tempting and extremely dangerous. Toddlers (ages 1 to 2) are the most likely to drink or eat dangerous materials they find. And, they can reach well above eye level to find bleach, plants, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, liquid nicotine or vaping liquid, alcohol, and cleaners to put in their mouths. Climbers (ages 2 to 5) most often find aspirin, medicines, vitamins, alcohol, and cosmetics.

Keep all medications locked away. Give medicine only to the person for whom it is prescribed and never refer to medicine as candy. Make sure you have child‑resistant containers for medicines. Never leave children unattended while administering medications. Keep all substances (cleaners, bleach, pesticides) in their original containers. Store poisonous products safely out of your child’s reach with safety latches on cabinets.

  • If you think your child has swallowed or been exposed to poison, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
  • Call 911 if your child appears unusually sleepy, is having seizures, has trouble breathing, has severe throat pain, or is drooling.
  • Bring to the ER whatever you think your child may have swallowed or been exposed to.
  • Do not make your child vomit or let him eat or drink anything.
  • If your child spills any poison on himself, remove his clothes, and wash him with soap and water.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your child's physician. The content provided on this page is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your child's physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition.

Reviewed on: 6/2024