Pubdate: Fri, 29 Jul 2005 Source: Parksville Qualicum Beach News (CN BC) Copyright: 2005 Parksville Qualicum Beach News Contact: http://www.pqbnews.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1361 Author: Beth Blackburn REDUCING RISK OF EXPOSING CHILDREN TO DRUG LABS Home -based methamphetamine production has led to an increased risk that children of meth users/producers will be exposed to the toxic production process and the drug itself. Professionals in the fields of child welfare, emergency medicine, pediatrics, public health and environmental health need to have an understanding of issues involved in the care of drug-endangered children and how to better care for them. Children exposed to environments such as methamphetamine production have unique needs because children are not small adults. Children differ dramatically in their cognitive, emotional, physical and developmental make up from adults. The degree of differences depends on their age and developmental stage, and therefore requires special attention and management. Specific Risks to Children Systemic absorption of chemicals or injury may occur by one or more of the following routes of exposure Inhalatio Skin Exposur Ingestion (swallowing Injectio Inhalation and/or skin exposure are the most likely routes of contamination for persons exposed to a drug-lab environment. Young children living in drug lab environments are generally in closer contact with contaminated surfaces, including the floor. This increases their exposure to dangerous toxic chemicals that could be absorbed into the child's body through the skin. Because infants and toddlers are usually crawling around on the floor they are at greater risk for ingestion or absorption than adults Children living in homes that produce or store methamphetamine are likely to be around gases and fine powders that are easily inhaled. Safeguarding Children. In the province of Alberta, the local Child and Family Service Authority ensures that children receive an immediate and appropriate medical exam, including testing for exposure to toxic chemicals and developmental screening. Upon being removed from the lab, the children are showered or bathed according to safe and recommended procedures in order to reduce chemical exposure. They are provided with new clothing, food and counseling. A forensic interview will be conducted with the child, most often in a child-friendly environment. The medical exam and interview provide important evidence to be used in the drug prosecution and child welfare court application. By working together the risk to the child can be lessened and the road to recovery started. - --- MAP posted-by: Josh