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 (PCC) inserted in the Urgency e Emergency Care Network of the Unified Health System (SUS). A descriptive study was conducted through an online questionnaire, made available on an electronic website and applied to professionals representing the PCC. Out of the 31 CIATox invited, 19 (61%) accepted and were included in the study. PCC 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. PCC can contribute with its expertise to the visibility of intoxications in Brazil and to the development of health care practices of the exposed or intoxicated person, integrated and operationalized through health care networks.