P3.134: Educating Families on Safe Cannabis Storage

Background: As more states legalize cannabis, there has been a corresponding increase in unintentional ingestions of cannabis, particularly in children under six. Children are more likely to experience severe symptoms including respiratory failure, coma, and seizures. From 2017 to 2021, cannabis exposure in children under six increased by 1375%, with 70% of these ingestions leading to central nervous system depression. The historic criminalization of cannabis use has led to stigma around conversations about its use and safety, however, education is vital as cannabis products become more widely legal. Pediatricians are essential in educating families about the risk of unintentional ingestions and promoting safe storage practices. While prior studies have shown that the most effective poison prevention techniques include providing education and home safety equipment, no study has specifically explored educational interventions to prevent unintentional cannabis ingestions.

Project Description: The purpose of the project is to assess parents’ existing knowledge and storage habits, provide safe storage equipment, and educate on the recognition and prevention of accidental cannabis ingestion. Seventy guardians of patients six years or younger who present for primary care visits will be enrolled in this study. Participants are given a pre-intervention survey in which they describe their current cannabis storage habits, understanding of the potential hazards of cannabis ingestion in children, and basic demographic information. They are then provided with a lockbox, poison control magnet, and educational materials highlighting the importance of safe cannabis storage. A post-survey is sent one month later to reassess storage practices and retention of educational information post-intervention.

Discussion: In addition to fostering non-judgmental discussion with families, we aim to assess their existing knowledge and habits surrounding safer cannabis storage practices, risks of accidental cannabis ingestion in children, and appropriate action in the event of a suspected ingestion. These open conversations elicit transparency between parents and providers and help reduce the stigma associated with discussing cannabis use, which can help promote an increase in safe cannabis storage practices. The pre-education surveys evaluated the families' baseline understanding of these topics using Likert-scaled questions. The follow-up surveys reassessed knowledge and storage practices following a brief educational intervention and lock box distribution. Statistical analysis will be used to compare the scaled responses of pre- and post-surveys to assess the effectiveness of our educational intervention and lock box usage.

Conclusion: With the increased incidence of unintentional cannabis ingestions among children, research that explores public understanding of this topic and assesses how to provide effective safety education is crucial. Pediatricians play a pivotal role in educating the public about safe storage of any potentially toxic substances, including cannabis. While survey collection is ongoing, preliminary results indicate a positive response from families that are participating and utilizing the lock boxes.