From the March 2006 issue

According to the 2004 Annual Report of the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC), most poison incidents occur in the home. It’s not uncommon for community pharmacists to be the first line of contact in cases of exposures. Be aware that poison centers offer valuable resources free of charge to both healthcare professionals and consumers.

In 2002, a national telephone number for poison centers was implemented, (800)222-1222 that connects any caller to the nearest poison center. Centers are accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide information in cases of poisoning exposures and emergencies. Keep this number readily available at your site and encourage patients to post this number on or near every telephone in their home.