Button batteries

Home treatment:

DO NOT INDUCE EMESIS (VOMITING). If the material from open or leaking battery gets on the skin or in the eyes, flush with lots of water for at least 15 minutes. If swallowed, drink water or milk IMMEDIATELY If the patient is vomiting, keep giving water or milk.

Before calling emergency:

Determine the following information:

• the patient's age, weight, and condition
• the name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
• the time it was swallowed
• the amount swallowed

Poison Control, or a local emergency number:

They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room:

Some or all of the following procedures may be performed.

• Give fluids.
• Give a cathartic.
• Take an x-ray to locate the battery.
• Remove the battery physically (may be through a scope) if it is still in the stomach.
• Treat the symptoms.

Expectations (prognosis):

In most cases, the battery passes through the body without causing any serious effects. The patient needs to be seen in an emergency room to make sure the battery does not lodge anywhere as it passes through the body, and that it is not leaking.

The prognosis (probable outcome) depends on how rapidly the alkali was diluted and neutralized. Extensive damage to the mouth, throat, and stomach are possible. The ultimate outcome will be dependent on the extent of this damage. Damage continues to occur to the esophagus and stomach for several weeks after the alkali was swallowed. Death may occur as long as a month after the alkali was swallowed. If the poisoning has been of a chronic nature, any mental deterioration may never be totally overcome.