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Sachet poisoning

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Alternative Names   

Potpourri poisoning

Definition    Return to top

This is poisoning from swallowing the ingredients of a sachet. A sachet is a bag that holds perfumed powder or a mix of dried flowers, herbs, and spices (potpourri).

Poisonous Ingredient    Return to top

Potpourri is generally considered to be non-toxic.

Where Found    Return to top

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms    Return to top

Home Care    Return to top

DO NOT make a person throw up unless told to do so by Poison Control or a health care professional. Seek immediate medical help.

Before Calling Emergency    Return to top

Determine the following information:

Poison Control    Return to top

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the U.S. use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.

See National Poison Control center.

What to Expect at the Emergency Room    Return to top

The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. The patient may receive:

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Sachets are not considered very poisonous. Survival past 48 hours is usually a good sign that recovery will occur.

Update Date: 3/13/2006

Updated by: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-RooseveltHospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed HealthcareNetwork.

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