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: Autumn Carrow.
Why did you go into the field of nursing?
I always knew I wanted to help people but was never fully sure how. My nursing degree was actually my second Bachelors. After I worked in a physical therapy office for a few years, I was really interested in more hands-on patient care and teaching approach. Pursuing nursing has been the best decision I’ve made!
How did you end up working at the Poison Center?
I started my nursing career as a Pediatric Emergency Nurse. Working in the emergency room you never know what is going to walk through the doors, and sometimes I would need to call the Poison Center for patients. Anytime I consulted with the Poison Center, the specialist who answered was always so reassuring, helpful, and knowledgeable. I wanted to learn and grow my knowledge to be able to do the same things. I found out there was an open position, completed a shadow day, and I knew I wanted to apply! It has been awesome becoming a part of the Maryland Poison Center team.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I really enjoy the variety of cases we are called about and the constant state of learning. There are always new medicines and products coming out on the market, so you really never know what kind of phone call you may get. It is great to be able to provide assistance to people when they really need it.
Why are Poison Centers and poison specialists like you important?
Poison Centers are so important because a majority of our cases can be managed safely at home or where they occur. We can provide helpful advice for any symptoms that may occur after a poisoning or overdose, this can help avoid a trip to Urgent Care or the emergency room (and the costs that come with it!). For cases that are managed in the hospital, we provide advice and treatments to health care providers and follow patients throughout their care until they’re discharged.
What’s an important message you want to share about poison safety?
Don’t be afraid to call, even if you think it is for something silly! Anything can be a poison if used in the wrong way, wrong amount, or by the wrong person. You can call for emergencies and for information. So even if you’re not entirely sure that something happened, give us a call! Double checking something with a Poison Center can help ease your mind.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
I enjoy trying new foods, hanging out with my dog, and going to the beach!
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