Poison Control Center

Poison Control Center

A Poison Control Center is a medical facility that is able to provide immediate, free, and expert treatment advice and assistance over the telephone in case of exposure to poisonous or hazardous substances. Poison control centers answer questions about potential poisons in addition to providing treatment management advice about household products, medicines, pesticides, plants, bites and stings, food poisoning, and fumes.

History

The first poison control center was established in Chicago, Illinois, in 1953. The idea quickly spread and there were 17 centers throughout the United States by 1957. Today, there are 55 poison control centers in the United States. All of these centers are connected to the American Association of Poison Control Centers.

Function

Poison control centers provide expert advice and treatment guidance for individuals or healthcare professionals who have been exposed to toxic substances. The advice provided by these centers can be life-saving.

Contacting a Poison Control Center

In the United States, poison control centers can be reached by calling 1-800-222-1222. This number will connect the caller to the poison control center that serves their area.

See Also

• American Association of Poison Control Centers
• Toxicology
• Emergency Medicine

References

Poison Control Center Resources
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