Poison Information Line offered at Washington Poison Center

Operates a confidential 24-hour hotline for information on poisoning, medication overdose as well as illicit drug exposure.  Aids in diagnosis and emergency treatment and is available to the general public, physicians and emergency departments.  The toll-free number will automatically route caller to the nearest poison control center in the United States.  All calls are confidential and are not reported to law enforcement. EMERGENCY INFORMATION: If you need an assessment of a potential medication overdose, get the following information:

• Exact name of medication from label (prescription or over-the-counter), if possible, or a description of the drug taken if name is unknown
• The amount of the drug taken (i.e. , milligrams per pill and total number of pills taken)
• When the drug was taken
• Whether alcohol was taken or not; if so, how much and when
• Approximate age, weight and height of patient
• Time of last meal eaten
• Approximate tolerance (i.e., has patient been taking same medication for years or only a week)  Predicts the most likely consequences and recommend the best emergency treatment for children and adults. Can also provide general information regarding the effects of various recreational drugs (amphetamines, hallucinogens, etc. ) to the public or members of the "drug culture."

It is recommended that people call the center prior to calling their physician or an emergency room as time is an important factor.  If a parent suspects a child has ingested a potentially poisonous substance, they can call the center and find out the toxicity of the product and the best immediate treatment to counteract it.  This center will notify the emergency room so they are prepared when the patient arrives.  The center has access to other specialized information sources for certain types of poisoning such as plants and insecticides. Assessment or information is available on workplace exposure, hazardous materials and environmental concerns.