ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: To identify poisons information resources most commonly utilized by Australasian Emergency Department staff, and examine attitudes regarding the benefits and user experience of the electronic products used. METHODS: A survey tool was mailed to six Emergency Departments each in New Zealand and Australia to be answered by medical and nursing staff. RESULTS: Eighty six (71.7%) responses were received from the 120 survey forms sent: 70 (81%) responders were medical staff, the remainder nursing. Electronic resources were the most accessed poisons information resource in New Zealand; Australians preferring discussion with a colleague; Poisons Information Centers were the least utilized resource in both countries. With regard to electronic resources, further differences were recognized between countries in: ease of access, ease of use, quality of information and quantity of information, with New Zealand better in all four themes. CONCLUSIONS: New Zealand ED staff favored electronic poisons information resources while Australians preferred discussion with a colleague. That Poisons Information Centers were the least utilized resource was surprising.
Subject(s)
Poison Control Centers , Poisoning/therapy , Australia , Data Collection , Emergency Service, Hospital/statistics & numerical data , Humans , New ZealandABSTRACT
Syrup of ipecacuanha has previously been used to decontaminate patients following toxic or potentially toxic ingestions. The recent removal of this product from distribution in New Zealand has caused some concern to health professionals. This article outlines the relative merits of syrup of ipecacuanha and activated charcoal, and concludes that the latter is preferable in many respects. Details of its appropriate administration are discussed.
