This is where we will share our children's health opinion pieces, advice, tips and tricks, resources and so much more. Check back here frequently for the latest baby and child health news and insight from us!
Originally published by Sarah Hunstead in September 2017
It is estimated that there are millions of out-of-date or unused medicines sitting in homes across Australia. This is a huge concern – especially for families with young children.
When was the last time you stopped to consider the medicines you store in the home – whether they are kept in the bathroom cabinet, kitchen drawer or anywhere else in the house. If they are expired or not currently being used, they could pose a risk if they end up in the hands of your children.
According to the Australian Poisons Information Centres, 5,580 children were hospitalised due to household medicine poisonings across Australia in 2015 alone, with most accidental poisonings occurring in children who are younger than five years old. The Centre also reported 32,000 calls in relation to children being unintentionally exposed to household medicines in the same year.
“I was shocked when I heard the number of incidences of medicine poisonings in children and even more so when I found out some of these cases could have easily been prevented,” said Natalie Barr, RUM spokesperson, Channel 7 Sunrise presenter and mum of two.
Here are some simple steps to help keep your kids safe and prevent accidental poisonings occurring in the home:
Return Unwanted Medicines is a Commonwealth Government-funded initiative that provides all Australians with a free and convenient way to dispose of expired and unwanted household medicines – simply by taking them to any pharmacy for safe collection and disposal.
“Return medicines you no longer need to your local pharmacy. This ensures that they are disposed of in a safe and environmentally-friendly way. It’s free, it’s easy and it’s safe,” said Ms Barr.
Review your home medicine area and read your medicine labels. Remove all your expired and unwanted medicines, placing them in a bag and container. Finally, return your unwanted medicines to your local pharmacy. Your pharmacist will put them in a secure bin for safe disposal. Each returned medicine is one less medicine in your household, lowering the risk of accidental poisonings that occur.
Watch this video with pharmacist Caroline Diamantis and Channel 7 Sunrise presenter Natalie Barr discussing the importance of returning unwanted and expired medicines to a pharmacy.
In this video paediatric nurse and founder of CPR Kids Sarah Hunstead steps you through the prevention, recognition and response to choking in babies and children. Essential knowledge for every family that you don’t want to miss.
Sign up to receive exclusive offers and important updates.
Book into any of our public classes for 4 or more people with code 4FOR15OFF and get 15% off.
Babies and breastfeeding are always welcome in our classes