What to Do If a Child Eats a Cannabis Edible
When an accidental ingestion occurs, time is of the essence. Here's what you need to do right away and some important considerations for parents.
Immediate Actions
- Stay calm and keep the child at a safe distance from others.
- Check the child's condition immediately after ingestion and monitor them closely for any signs of distress.
- If the edible is a solid, remove it if it is still visible in the mouth and encourage the child to cough and spit out any remaining pieces.
- If the edible is a liquid or has already been ingested, seek medical help immediately.
- Keep any packaging from the edible to give to healthcare professionals as it can provide vital information.
- Avoid giving the child anything to eat or drink if they have vomited; wait until they have been observed without vomiting for a period of time (usually at least one hour) before introducing clear fluids like water or Pedialyte.
Key Features
The key features to consider when dealing with a cannabis edible ingestion include immediate response, medical intervention, and understanding the potential effects.
Understanding Cannabis Edibles
Cannabis edibles are absorbed into the bloodstream slowly, and the onset of effects can be delayed. This delay can be particularly concerning for children who may not understand the substance they've ingested.
signs of cannabis poisoning in kids
Preventing Future Incidents
To prevent future incidents, keep all cannabis products out of reach of children and educate them about the dangers of ingesting substances they're not meant to consume.