Poisoning

There are many hazards in the home which put people at risk for accidental poisoning. Poisoning can occur any time a harmful substance is intentionally or unintentionally ingested. Poisons come in many forms including plants, cleaning supplies, spoiled food, and medications. Children, who are naturally curious and like to explore, are, in particular, at risk for poisoning. Adults who may be confused or who have vision problems are also at risk of accidentally ingesting a substance that could potentially be poisonous. Never allow children or confused adults to have access to potentially harmful chemicals or medications.

Guidelines to Prevent Poisoning

• Keep all cleaning supplies and chemicals locked.
• All medications should be kept in a locked storage area, out of reach.
• Check medications periodically for expiration dates and properly dispose of expired medications. Some medications become toxic when they are past their expiration date.
• Do not tell children that medication is “candy,” as this makes it look more attractive to them.
• Ensure all medications and chemicals are properly labelled. Childproof caps should be on medicine bottles.
• Ensure the client uses visual aids, such as glasses, when taking their medications and when using a household cleaner or chemical.
• Check the refrigerator weekly and dispose of spoiled, mouldy, or otherwise compromised food.
• Never use cans that have bulges or deep dents in them.
• Keep poisonous plants out of reach of children and pets.
• Keep the number for Poison Control near a telephone and ensure the family knows who to call in case of an emergency.

Choking

Choking can occur while a person is eating, drinking, taking medications, or if an object is put into the mouth and accidentally swallowed. Choking means the person’s airway is compromised and they are unable to breathe. Some signs of choking include a bluish skin colour, inability to talk, cry, or to make any sounds, a weak, ineffective cough, soft or high-pitched sounds while inhaling, ribs and chest pulling inward as the person is having difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness if left without air (MedlinePlus, 2015). 

Guidelines to Prevent Choking

• Cut food into bite-sized pieces for children and those with chewing or swallowing difficulties.
• Prepare food that is of appropriate consistency (such as pureed or special diets), and as according to the care plan.
• Ensure clients eat, drink, and take medications in a fully upright position.
• Keep clients who are at risk for choking in an upright position for 30–60 minutes after eating to prevent aspiration of food or liquids.
• Encourage clients to completely chew and swallow food and to eat slowly.
• Discourage clients from talking while eating, as this puts them at risk for choking.
• Avoid food items such as popcorn, nuts, pretzels, gum, and hot dogs with small children and those with swallowing difficulties.