Observation and patient disposition after caustic ingestions

Specific observation and discharge advice is given for the following caustic agents:

• button batteries
• herbicides, including chlorophenoxy herbicides, glyphosate, and paraquat
• hydrofluoric acid.

Admit patients after other caustic ingestions for observation, treatment and surgical referral if they have:

• ingested a strong alkali or acid
• ongoing pain requiring parenteral analgesia
• evidence of viscus perforation or peritonitis.

Observe patients with accidental or minor exposures to caustic agents for at least 6 hours. and discharge them if they remain asymptomatic and are tolerating oral intake. If patients have minor symptoms, discharge them after symptoms have resolved.