Poisoning is the leading cause of injury-related death in the United States, surpassing that from motor vehicle crashes. Most these deaths are unintentional (i.e., not suicide). In adolescents, poisoning is the 3rd leading cause of injury-related death. Of the >2…
Key Concepts The clinical pattern of acute and chronic lithium toxicity is different. Gastrointestinal symptoms occur early, and neurologic toxicity manifests late in acute toxicity. Neurologic findings (e.g., tremors, altered mental status and seizures) often are presenting signs of chronic…
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 Patients contaminated with radiation pose minimal risk to health care providers when appropriate precautions and decontamination procedures are employed. Decontamination should not delay or impede emergency stabilization of patients with radiation exposure. Tissues with greater rates of cellular…