These are recommended
procedures developed by the National Alliance for Drug Endangered
Children. Various localities may need to adjust the strategies
depending on their resources. As local, state and federal protocols
are approved and implemented, this information will be updated.
The first task of a
medical team in a drug endangered child situation (if case does not call
for emergency activation) is to evaluate and begin necessary treatment.
Medical personnel also play a vital role in collecting and preserving
evidence.
1) Head to toe exam of the
child within two to four hours to ensure medical stability and document
any acute findings that might need treatment or change over time. This
may take place in an emergency room, physician's office or by EMTs on the
scene. This initial exam should include (but NOT be limited to) a good
pulmonary exam, skin exam, neurological exam and affect (IE: scared,
happy, detached, etc.). This may include observations by EMTs, RN on the
scene or other personnel to document the affect of the child.
2) Blood tests need to
include a CBC (anemia, cancers, thrombocytopenias), chemistry panel
including BUN/Cr and LFTs (kidney and liver damage, electrolyte
imbalances). This can be done acutely or within 72-hours.
3) Collect urine for
toxicology. This should happen as soon as possible but MUST occur within
six hours for optimal results. Submit to a lab that screens and reports
for the level of detection of the test not just at NIDA standards.
Chain of Evidence forms may be used or usual medical protocols for urine
toxicology screens may be followed.
Beginning May 1,
2006, medical care facilities will use a standard form to record
information when treating children removed from a Meth environment. You
may download a free copy here.
You will need a copy of
Adobe Reader to open the file.
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