Management of pediatric toxic ingestions in the emergency department

Pediatric ingestions present a common challenge for emergency clinicians. While findings and information from the physical examination, electrocardiographic, laboratory, and radiologic testing may suggest a specific ingestion, timely identification of many substances is not always possible. In addition to diagnostic challenges, the management of many ingested substances is controversial and recommendations are evolving. This issue reviews the initial resuscitation, diagnosis, and treatment of common pediatric ingestions. Also discussed are current recommendations for decontamination and administration of antidotes for specific toxins.