Kids : Poisoning

Poisoning

Introduction

Poisoning in children is a major cause of illness. 90% of poisoning cases occur at home. Toddlers are at higher risk for poisoning as their natural exploring and curiosity behaviour may result in ingestion.

Common sources of poisons in the household :

• Kerosene and hydrocarbon (petrol)
• Prescribed medicine
• Insecticides, herbicides and pesticides
• Detergents, polishes and caustics

Kids : Playground safety

Introduction Playgrounds, despite providing wonderful opportunities for fun, exercise and recreation, can be a hazardous place when safety is ignored. Each year 250,000 children below 15 years in USA sustain injuries at playgrounds and require emergency treatment. In Malaysia about 3000 cases of injuries occur at the playground every 3 months. The injuries commonly involved children between 5-9 years of age. Playground surface was the most frequently identified factor contributing to injuries (Ref. Epidemiology of Injuries in Malaysia).