Overview
A child can become very sick, or die, from swallowing alcohol, drugs, or poisons.
Alcohol is in beer, wine, and spirits. But it also is in mouthwash and food extracts. A child can become ill after swallowing only a little bit.
Drugs include over-the-counter medicine (such as aspirin or acetaminophen) and prescription medicine. They also include natural health products, such as vitamins and herbal remedies. And they include illegal drugs, such as cocaine and heroin.
And poisons are all around us. They include household cleaners, cosmetics, houseplants, and garden chemicals.
The best way to protect your child is to make sure that all alcohol, medicine, and household products are kept out of sight. This is a good time to check around your house to make sure that your child can't get to them.
The doctor has checked your child carefully, but problems can develop later. If you notice any problems or new symptoms, get medical treatment right away.
Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter F939 in the search box to learn more about "Alcohol, Drug, or Poison Ingestion in Children: Care Instructions".