One of the goals of our eAntidote blog is to introduce you to the real poison experts who answer the phones at the Maryland Poison Center (MPC), as well as our staff members. In addition to being nurses and pharmacists, they are parents, grandparents, artists, athletes, sports fans, and more! Read the Q&A below to get to know one of our specialists: Amy B.
Why did you go into the field of pharmacy?
I wanted to go into the field of pharmacy because I love how it is an ever-changing world. There is always an opportunity to learn something new. This keeps things fresh and exciting!
How did you end up working at the Poison Center?
I ended up working at the Poison Center because I was looking for a role that combined retail and clinical pharmacy skills, and at the Poison Center you get a combination of that! We receive a wide range of calls that require both of those skill sets. We use clinical knowledge and decision-making abilities and require collaboration between Poison Specialists and other clinical professionals here at the MPC. We also have to effectively communicate with the public when they call.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
The thing I enjoy most about my work is the wide variety of calls you can get on a daily basis. You can never predict what call is going to come in, or who you are going to interact with. We get calls ranging from drug interactions and side effects, to whether a specific plant can be toxic to humans or animals. We also help hospitals and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) people manage patients with poison exposures.
Why are Poison Centers and Poison Specialists like you important?
Poison Centers are important because they are a place where the public and health care providers can call to get information about poisonings. Poison Specialists are important because we are all trained to make recommendations that can save trips to the emergency room or a health care provider for most cases.
What’s an important message you want to share about poison safety?
An important message I want to share is to never be afraid to call us! We are here to help 24/7 and to take care of everyone. We don’t judge you or your situation.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
When I am not working, I’m an avid sailor and skier! I also love playing tennis with my husband. We have an adorable little cavapoo dog that enjoys all of our adventures.
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