[GiftIQ: status quo of poisoning care in Germany : A nationwide survey assessing the current status in emergency and critical care medicine].

BACKGROUND

Poisoned patients represent a substantial proportion of cases in emergency medicine and critical care.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the perceived current practice of managing poisoned patients in German prehospital emergency services, emergency departments, and intensive care units from the perspective of frontline staff.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A prospective cross-sectional survey was conducted among personnel in German prehospital emergency services, emergency departments, and intensive care units from 3-19 October 2025.

RESULTS

A total of 563 participants, predominantly from hospital-based and prehospital emergency care, estimated that poisoned patients accounted for a median of 5% (interquartile range [IQR] 3-10) of all cases in their clinical practice and required monitoring in 70% (IQR 40-90) of cases. Alcohol- and drug-related intoxications were most commonly encountered, whereas poisonings involving medications, chemicals, plants/mushrooms, and animals were less frequent. Most participants rated their formal training in the management of poisoned patients as insufficient. Many expressed a need for further education, specifically trained clinical staff, and a German-language digital information platform. Information was commonly obtained through independent internet searches or poison information centers. However, poison information centers were contacted in only about 30% of cases.

CONCLUSION

The findings point to a perceived gap in toxicological training and knowledge transfer in emergency and critical care. Poison information centers were regarded as valuable but not sufficient as the only source of expertise. Strengthening toxicological competencies through structured training and digital information resources may support acute care practice.