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FAQs

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  1. What is a poison?

  2. Does it cost to call Mississippi Poison Control Center?

  3. When should I call Poison Control?

  4. What to expect when calling Mississippi Poison Control?

  5. I'm worried that you will tell someone. What will you do with my information?

  6. Why do you ask so many questions?

  7. Does Mississippi Poison Control Center answer calls regarding poisoned pets?

  8. How can I get education material?

  9. How do I apply for a job at Mississippi Poison Control Center?

1. What is a poison?

A poison is anything that is:

  • Used in the wrong way
  • Used by the wrong person
  • Used in the wrong amount

Exposure to poisons can occur by ingestion, inhalation, skin contact, eye or ear contact, injected, or inserted.

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2. Does it cost to call Mississippi Poison Control Center?

No! It is always free and confidential.

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3. When should I call Poison Control?

If you think someone has been poisoned, call the Mississippi Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) right away. Do not wait for signs of poisoning as they may not look or feel sick. Also, call anytime for general questions about possible poisons, medications, chemicals, etc.

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4. What to expect when calling Mississippi Poison Control?

Your call will be answered by a specialized poison information healthcare provider. We ask questions to better understand the situation so we may provide the most accurate recommendations. Every poisoning is different. The questions may not seem relevant but the healthcare provider has been trained on what questions to ask in order to give the best recommendations. Questions may include: what happened, what is the exact name of the poison, when did this happen, how much of the poison, how is patient doing, and what is the patient's age?  Names are asked but are not required. Names are asked to help identify the chart in case we receive a call back or need a follow up call. All information obtained is placed in a medical record and covered by HIPAA.

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5. I'm worried that you will tell someone. What will you do with my information?

All information is recorded in a medical chart that is protected by HIPAA. Please see our Privacy section regarding HIPAA coverage.

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6. Why do you ask so many questions?

Every poison exposure is different. Some factors may increase the risk of serious effects and prompt a referral to a healthcare facility. The healthcare provider is trained to know which questions to ask in order to determine the best recommendations to give. The more information that the healthcare provider receives will lead to a better understanding of the situation and appropriate recommendations.

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7. Does Mississippi Poison Control Center answer calls regarding poisoned pets?

Our healthcare providers are trained on human exposures. We have limited information on how substances react in animals. Please call the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) or the ASPCA (888-426-4435).

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8. How can I get education material?

There are three options.

  1. Call 1-800-222-1222 and make the request with one of the healthcare providers.

  2. Fill out a request form or

  3. Email the Education and Outreach Coordinator.

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9. How do I apply for a job at Mississippi Poison Control Center?

If there are any job openings available, they would be listed at the University of Mississippi Medical Center website under Career Opportunities.

You may also email a resume to the Managing Director at any time.

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