Key Concepts An asphyxiant is any gas that displaces sufficient oxygen from the breathable air. Treatment consists of removal from exposure, supplemental oxygen, and supportive care. Highly water-soluble gases produce rapid irritation and predominantly upper respiratory tract effects, such as…
Key Concepts Aspiration is the major toxic risk of hydrocarbon poisoning. Hydrocarbons may cause systemic toxicity, burns, cardiac dysrhythmias, altered mentation, and seizures depending upon the specific agent, dose, and duration of exposure. Gastrointestinal decontamination is potentially harmful in cases…
Key Concepts Asymptomatic patients seeking emergency department (ED) care for an abnormal metal test need follow-up evaluation arranged with a medical toxicologist. Metal testing in the ED should be ordered in consultation with a medical toxicologist or regional poison center.…
Key Concepts Hallucinogens include many types of drugs and chemicals with different associated effects, including action at serotonin receptors, dopamine receptors, and glutamate N -methyl- d -aspartate receptors. Diagnosis and management are based primarily on the history and physical examination,…
Key Concepts Excessive use of stimulants can lead to sympathomimetic toxicity , manifesting as tachycardia, hypertension, mydriasis, diaphoresis, hyperthermia, hyperreflexia, and agitation. If untreated, sympathomimetic toxicity can lead to seizures, coma, and death. Administration of benzodiazepines is the key therapeutic…
Key Concepts Health care workers caring for patients with caustic exposures should adhere to universal precautions to prevent additional exposure. All symptomatic patients should undergo endoscopy and be should be observed for at least 24 hours. Asymptomatic patients can undergo…
Cardioactive Steroids (Digoxin) Key Concepts Digoxin toxicity is often occult and should be considered in any patient who is on digoxin and presents with gastrointestinal or visual disturbance and a new dysrhythmia, conduction disturbance or hemodynamic instability, particularly in the…
Key Concepts Although rarely used for depression, MAOIs are used in the treatment of Parkinson disease. Because serious symptoms can occur after a lengthy latent period, patients with reported MAOI overdose should be admitted for 24 hours, regardless of symptoms.…
Key Concepts Anticholinergic (antimuscarinic) intoxication is common and can occur as a result of ingestion of a variety of plants and drugs, both prescription and over-the-counter. Most patients with antimuscarinic toxicity do well with supportive care and observation. Antimuscarinic syndrome…
Key Concepts In the overdose setting, salicylates are profoundly toxic and can be fatal. Salicylate overdose requires vigilant assessment and treatment. The other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) generally have self-limited toxicity and respond to supportive measures. There is no specific…