Brazilian Poison Control Centers: preliminary description of their organization and functions

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the functional and organizational attributes of Brazilian Poison Control Centers (PCCs) inserted in the Network of Attention to the Emergencies and Emergencies of SUS. A descriptive study was conducted through an online questionnaire, made available on an electronic website and applied to professionals representing PCCs. Of the 31 CIATox invited, 19 (61%) accepted and were included in the study. PCCs offer full-time telephone and / or face-to-face care and 39 types of activities, with emphasis on clinical advice for health professionals. They are linked to management institutions at all three levels of government, however, they have limited resources, mainly due to inadequate or insufficient funding. PCCs can contribute with its expertise to the visibility of intoxications in the Brazil and to the development of health care practices of the exposed or intoxicated person, integrated and operationalized through health care networks.