Children explore the world with their mouths, which leaves them vulnerable to the medications, cleaning products and chemicals around the home. Most poisonings are household accidents and can be prevented with simple precautions. In this article you will find the correct first steps when poisoning is suspected and, most importantly, what you should never do.

Symptoms of Poisoning

  • Sudden nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain
  • Burns around the mouth, increased salivation, foul odor in the mouth
  • Drowsiness, loss of balance, confusion
  • Difficulty breathing, coughing, fast/slow breathing
  • Unexplained restlessness or seizure

First Aid: What to Do

  1. Stay calm and identify the substance. Keep the box/bottle with you; estimate how much was taken and when.
  2. Call the 114 National Poison Information Center (free); they will tell you what to do for exposure through the mouth, skin or airways.
  3. If the child's condition is severe (loss of consciousness, difficulty breathing, seizure), call 112.
  4. If the substance has touched the skin, rinse with plenty of water; if it got into the eye, rinse with running water for 15-20 minutes.

What You Must Never Do

  • Do not try to induce vomiting. Especially with corrosive substances (bleach, limescale remover), vomiting burns the esophagus again.
  • Do not give salt water, milk or "home remedies"; do not give anything to drink without consulting a doctor.
  • Do not wait: do not lose time by saying "maybe it will pass."

Prevention: Childproof Your Home

  • Store medications and cleaning products in locked, high cabinets.
  • Never decant products into water/soda bottles.
  • Watch out for medications left in bags; guests' bags are a frequently overlooked source.
  • Choose products with "child-resistant" caps.
  • In winter, also take precautions against carbon monoxide poisoning from stoves, gas water heaters and boilers: carbon monoxide poisoning.

Poisoning is a matter of minutes; the right first step and quick consultation change the outcome in most cases. For home safety and other emergencies, also take a look at our first aid in children guide.

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This content is for informational purposes only; in an emergency call 112, and for poisoning call 114. — Uzm. Dr. Hasan Keleş