Poison Information Specialist

Boston Children's Hospital•Boston, MA

About The Position

Receives and responds to telephone calls regarding actual or suspected poisoning episodes and recommends immediate treatment/intervention. Provides general information to medical professionals and the general public on poison prevention and potential toxicity of drugs and other materials.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree is required. Pharmacy or Nursing area of study.
Up to one year of post degree course work and/or an internship.
Two years of experience as a Poison Information Specialist is required.
Current Massachusetts license as a Pharmacist or Registered Nurse.

Responsibilities

Answers and documents telephone requests for information.
Assesses nature and complexity of call and determines the depth of information to be exchanged.
Accurately records and codes specified information as required.
Receives and responds to calls involving actual or suspected poisoning exposures.
Calms and reassures callers.
Obtains detailed information regarding substance involved and victims' symptoms and condition.
Researches and recommends course of action to the caller.
Accurately records and codes specified information as required.
Contacts health care providers and other callers for follow up information on patient's progress.
Accurately records the information in the patient's record.
Attends continuing education courses and seminars to update knowledge.
Shares observations and experience in the management of poisonings.
May participate in regional toxicology meetings.
Assists in the orientation and training of new clinical staff as well as in teaching students, visitors and other groups in the general principles of toxicology/poison prevention and treatment.
Works within fixed shifts as assigned to meet the staffing needs of the Center.
Contributes to teamwork.