When
it comes to calling the Illinois Poison Center (IPC), I have heard parents say,
“I would have called but I didn’t want to look like a bad parent,” or “I am
afraid you will report me to the DCFS?” I’ve heard this refrain from young mothers, Facebook followers
and even a public official; many parents are afraid to contact our free,
confidential medical service for fear of being labeled a “bad” parent.
As
an emergency physician and toxicologist, and the father of two children, I understand
on a personal and professional level, that children can and do get into
everything. In the time it takes
you to turn around, a small child can swallow a battery or drink your eye
drops. In fact, close to 49
percent of all calls to the IPC are regarding children 5 years of age and
under.
At
the IPC, we have a top-notch team of physicians, pharmacists, nurses and
specially trained poison experts available 24 hours per day seven days per week
to provide treatment advice on poison exposures. This skilled staff manages 90 percent
of calls at home without referral to a health care facility. We do not report parents
to authorities; that’s not our job. Our job is to ensure your safety and the
safety of your loved ones by providing access to comprehensive treatment
advice.
I
know the overwhelming feelings of anxiety and fear when something may be wrong
with your child- panic ensues and your thoughts often turn to the worst case
scenario. In that stressful moment when you discover your child in the medicine
cabinet or playing with household chemicals or other potentially hazardous
substances, I’m encourage you to call the IPC at 1-800-222-1222 to for free,
confidential treatment advice for your child.
Dr. Michael Wahl.
Medical Director
Illinois Poison Center
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