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46 - Overdoses

from Section 10 - Environmental Emergencies

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 November 2023

Kaushal Shah
Affiliation:
Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York
Jarone Lee
Affiliation:
Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
Clark G. Owyang
Affiliation:
Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York
Benjamin Christian Renne
Affiliation:
Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
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Summary

Patients presenting with intentional ingestion are often unreliable historians; thus, collateral information is essential. This may be obtained from family, friends or emergency medical service personnel and include observed and reported behavior, medication history or empty pill bottles found at the scene. History and physical examination are crucial to establish a diagnosis and to guide treatment. Co-ingestions are common in intentional overdoses, specifically acetaminophen and salicylate, which are commonly available over the counter in multiple preparations.

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Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2023

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References

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