Citation

Cox C, Petrie N, Hurley KF. CJEM 2016; 19(5): 400-403.

Affiliation

†Department of Emergency Medicine,Dalhousie University,Halifax,NS.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians, Publisher Cambridge University Press)

DOI

10.1017/cem.2016.342

PMID

27503268

Abstract

Amber teething necklaces supposedly provide analgesia for teething infants. Their use is becoming more widespread, despite lack of peer-reviewed evidence and warnings from Health Canada that they pose a strangulation and aspiration risk. To date, there have been no published reports of strangulation secondary to amber teething necklaces. In this report we present a case of non-fatal infant strangulation from the first time use of an amber teething necklace. We will also discuss the role of physicians as advocates in reporting similar cases and educating families. Finally, we will comment on the responsibility of all professionals and professional organizations that work with infants and toddlers to advocate for children by raising concerns and counselling parents.

Language: en