Because of the danger of liver failure, patients with mushroom poisoning generally require observation in an intensive care unit. There aren't many dangerous mushrooms, but unfortunately, there are no general rules for spotting them or distinguishing them from their edible cousins. Your best bet for familiarizing yourself with the mushrooms in your area is to go into the field with experienced people who can help you learn. You also might want to take part in mushroom conferences. There is one in Telluride, Colorado, each August that I help organize, and NAMA also has conferences for amateurs.
Mushroom hunting can be a very rewarding and enjoyable pursuit.
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