United States – NAEYC.06 – Becoming a professional
United States – NHES.05 – Students will demonstrate the ability to use decision-making skills
to enhance health.
44. The emergency treatment of accidental poisoning is dependent upon the type of substance a child has swallowed.
What signs would help you to determine the appropriate treatment?
Burns around the mouth, lips, and/or chin would indicate that the child has probably ingested
a strong acid or alkali substance. Treatment for this type of poisoning would include: not
giving the child anything to drink, not making the child vomit, calling the Poison Control
Center and following their instructions, observing the child closely for signs of shock or
difficulty breathing, and providing treatment as necessary.
If the swallowed substance is a petroleum-based product, you would likely detect an odor of
gasoline or kerosene on the child’s breath. Treatment for this type of poisoning would be the
same as for strong acids/alkalis. The child should be transported immediately to a hospital or
emergency medical facility at once.
If neither of these signs are observed, quickly contact the Poison Control Center and follow
their instructions. Continue to observe the child closely for signs of shock or difficulty
breathing and treat as necessary.
United States – NAEYC.06 – Becoming a professional
United States – NHES.05 – Students will demonstrate the ability to use decision-making skills
to enhance health.