Laundry detergent pod ingestion: Difference between revisions

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==Background==
==Background==
*Pods contain significantly more concentrated detergent than standard liquid detergents
*Tide pods are laundry detergent pods that contain ethoxylated polymers, ethoxylated alcohols, surfactants, as well as other unknown proprietary ingredients. They are considered a caustic hydrocarbon injury, and contain significantly more concentrated detergent than standard liquid detergents.
*Size and colorful packaging makes pods a risk for pediatric ingestion
*Size and colorful packaging makes pods a risk for pediatric ingestion



Revision as of 12:16, 26 August 2019

Background

  • Tide pods are laundry detergent pods that contain ethoxylated polymers, ethoxylated alcohols, surfactants, as well as other unknown proprietary ingredients. They are considered a caustic hydrocarbon injury, and contain significantly more concentrated detergent than standard liquid detergents.
  • Size and colorful packaging makes pods a risk for pediatric ingestion

Clinical Features

In a review of 202 cases[1][2]

  • No effects - 24%
  • Vomiting - 66%
  • Respiratory complaints - 16%
  • altered mental status - 9%
  • Eye irritation - 8%
  • Skin irritation - 0.5%
  • Fever - 0.6%

Differential Diagnosis

Hyperthermia

Hypothermia

Increased Respiratory Rate

Respiratory Depression

Evaluation

  • ABCs
  • Chem 7
  • Chest x-ray for respiratory complaints such as SOB/cough (there may be a delayed pneumonitis)
  • Consider 6-hour observation period from time of ingestion, as some symptoms may be delayed
  • Assess for co-ingestions if there is sufficient concern
  • Red Flag signs: stridor, excessive drooling, persistent vomiting--if 1 of 3 concerning symptoms are present, patient may need endoscopy within 12-24 hours (after 24 hours, greater risk of perforation). Consider toxicology consult.

Management

  • ABCs
    • Consider intubation for significant respiratory compromise
  • Decontamination/eye irrigation if external exposure
  • Ondansetron for nausea
  • Correct electrolyte abnomralities if present
  • Contact Poison Control

Disposition

  • Monitor in ED in conjunction with Poison Control recommendations
  • Consider admission if respiratory compromise, altered mental status, or GI complaints resistant to symptomatic treatment

See Also

External Links

References

  1. Beuhler MC, Gala PK, Wolfe HA, et al. Laundry detergent “pod” ingestions: a case series and discussion of recent literature. Pediatr Emerg Care. 2013; 29(6):743–747.
  2. Valdez, A et al. Pediatric Exposure to Laundry Detergent Pods. Pediatrics. 2014. http://media.kshb.com/pdf/Pediatric%20Exposure%20to%20Laundry%20Detergent%20Pods.pdf