In 1993, the American Academy of Clinical Toxicology (ACCT) and the European Association of Poisons Centres and Clinical Toxicologists (EAPCCT) agreed to collaborate on Position Statements regarding Gastrointestinal Decontamination. These Statements were systematically developed clinical guidelines intended for the in‐hospital treatment of the poisoned patient. The societies also developed a review mechanism to ensure that these Statements remained clinically relevant and up‐to‐date. During the past year, the Position Statements have undergone review and revision by members (drawn from more than sixty countries) of the two societies. Over the coming months, the updated Position Statements will be published in Journal of Toxicology—Clinical Toxicology.
In preparing the original Position Statement and the update, all relevant scientific literature was identified and reviewed by acknowledged experts using agreed upon criteria. Well‐conducted clinical and experimental studies were given precedence over anecdotal case reports. A draft Position Statement was then produced and subjected to detailed peer review by an international group of clinical toxicologists chosen by the AACT and the EAPCCT. The Position Statements went through multiple drafts before being approved by the boards of the two societies.
It has been decided by the two societies that the “Position Statements” would now be designated “Position Papers.”
The Position Papers are based only on evidence published in the English medical literature. Expert opinion was not a basis for the recommendations as expert opinion is so divergent. It is hoped that these Papers will clarify available science and offer direction for further research while simultaneously providing a sound basis for patient care.
The AACT and EAPCCT gratefully acknowledge the time and contribution of the members of the Position Paper updates:
Nicholas Bateman
Edward Krenzelok
Kenneth Kulig
Philippe Lheureux
Anthony Manoguerra
Michael McGuigan
Jan Meulenbelt
Donna Seger
Allister Vale
Expert Review was provided by Milton Tenenbein
Donna Seger, MD, President, AACT
Jan Meulenbelt, MD, President EAPCCT