NC: Meth Task Force Forges Forward

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http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v03.n1913.a02.html

One of the issues the local Meth Task Force has been working on for several
months is the development of a standard protocol for emergency room
treatment of children found in homes where methamphetamine has been
produced. Dr. Bob Ellison of the Appalachian District Health Department
brought the discussion a step closer to resolution last Friday by
presenting suggestions for immediate care and clinical evaluations.As a
prelude, Ellison reviewed the potential effects of chemical exposure from
meth production: skin and eye irritation, burns and respiratory effects
such as cough and asthma. Long term effects can include liver, spleen and
kidney damage, respiratory difficulties, delayed speech and language and
possible neurological damage.

Ellison told the group that his clinical evaluation and testing suggestions
did not constitute a protocol but that he was simply presenting guidelines
based on available information that might not be appropriate for every
child.