Initial management involves the treatment of any potentially life-threatening conditions, such as airway compromise, breathing difficulties, haemodynamic instability and serious dysrhythmias. Thereafter, convulsions should be treated, fluid, acid–base and electrolyte abnormalities corrected and hypothermia managed by using a space blanket. Children under 5 years old who have ingested aspirin, salicylate, iron, an opioid or a tricyclic antidepressant require hospital observation and possibly admission. The need for admission of adult patients depends on the agent(s) ingested, features present, results of investigations and psychological state.