What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to evaluate if emergency department visits for poison exposures in young children are medically necessary.

May 10, 2026

Assessing unnecessary emergency department visits for poison exposures in pediatric patients less than six years old

LMLiam P. McLoughlinRutgers, The State University of New Jersey HGHoward A. GrellerRutgers, The State University of New Jersey MPMehruba A. ParrisRutgers, The State University of New Jersey

Key Points

The aim is to evaluate if emergency department visits for poison exposures in young children are medically necessary.
Retrospective analysis of 348 poison control center cases for patients under six years old.
Toxicologists assessed cases using a 4-point Likert scale regarding the necessity of emergency department visits.
Binomial regression and qualitative thematic analysis were conducted on the data.
About 65% of cases did not require emergency department evaluation.
Clinical symptoms significantly influenced toxicologists' decisions on the necessity of emergency care.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: We will investigate the medical necessity of pediatric emergency department presentations, specifically for emergency department poison cases where a poison control center was not contacted prior to presenting. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 348 poison control center cases involving patients aged < six, originating from a healthcare facility were evaluated. Toxicologists were presented with case summaries and were asked: "would you send this patient to the emergency department?" Evaluators answered on a 4-point Likert scale from "definitely would not send" to "definitely would send." Reviewers had the opportunity to write in additional information that would be beneficial to deciding their disposition. To simulate the need to make a yes or no decision on whether to send, Likert scores were manipulated into a binomial score of 0/1. Binomial regression analysis and qualitative thematic analysis were completed. RESULTS: = 25) were desired to better determine the need for an emergency department. DISCUSSIONS: About 65% of cases were evaluated as not requiring emergency department evaluation. The presence of clinical symptoms is a key factor related to clinician level of concern. Further work should include finding ways to prevent these emergency department presentations. CONCLUSIONS: Many emergency department evaluations for poison exposure amongst children less than six years old are not medically required. Further work should focus on improving parental knowledge of poison centers and poison safety, while continuing to promote poison centers as accessible resources to the public.

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