Introducing the new Ashtons Poisoning Toolkit

27 June, 2023

Our new Poisoning Toolkit gives guidance on what to do when confronted with poisoning, whether this be from self-harm or accidental overdose of prescribed medication

Around 160,000 people are admitted into hospital in the UK each year with suspected poisoning. Our new Poisoning Toolkit explains what to do when confronted with poisoning, whether this be from self-harm or accidental overdose of prescribed medication. It is designed for healthcare professionals and covers:

  • Common types of poisoning
  • Signs and symptoms
  • Specifics for treatment of paracetamol poisoning and opioid and benzodiazepine overdose
  • Helpful flowcharts for action needed in the event of poisoning

This toolkit helps determine the course of action in different situations and also covers conditions for hospital admission. Healthcare providers should have a policy to deal with poisoning, all relevant staff should be familiar with local policy and take the appropriate action in the case of suspected poisoning. Patients should be sent to A&E in suspected overdose and poisoning, and treatment should not be delayed.

To access the new toolkit, just email our Customer Service Team on  customerservice@ashtons.com.

We also provide a range of other guides and toolkits as part of our range of medical supplies.