Childhood Accidental Poisoning in Tafila

Objective: To asses the frequency, causes and how to increase the awareness of childhood poisoning.
Material & Methods: A retrospective study of childhood accidental poisoning was conducted in Tafila Prince Zeid Hospital (PZH) by reviewing the files of 134 children admitted with accidental poisoning in 2003-2005. Findings: This study showed that accidental poisoning was frequent but morbidity was low and there were no deaths. Analgesics and antihistamines were the most frequently ingested drugs.
Conclusion: The frequency of accidental poisoning is common in Tafila. Household chemicals and medication were the predominant. So, that merits the introduction of a public awareness campaign and increased use of child-resistant containers is important preventive measures that deserve more attention.