injuries and poisoning
Overview of Poisoning
Introduction
Poisoning is the harmful effect that occurs when a toxic substance is swallowed, is inhaled, or comes in contact with the skin, eyes, or mucous membranes, such as those of the mouth or nose. Possible poisonous substances include prescription and over-the-counter drugs, illicit drugs, gases, chemicals, vitamins, food, mushrooms, plants, and animal venom. Some poisons cause no damage, whereas others can cause severe damage or death. The diagnosis is based on symptoms, on information gleaned from the poisoned person and bystanders, and sometimes on blood and urine tests. Drugs should always be stored in original child-proof containers and kept out of the reach of children. Treatments include supporting the person's body functions, preventing additional absorption of the poison, increasing elimination of the poison, and sometimes giving a specific antidote. More than 2 million people suffer some type of poisoning each year in the United States. Drugs—prescription, over-the-counter, and illicit—are a common source of serious poisonings and poisoning-related deaths (see Acetaminophen Poisoning and 