Chapter 35 - Poisoning

Summary

Deliberate self-poisoning is usually an intentional oral ingestion of a variety of drugs by previously well adults and makes up 95% of cases. This chapter explains airway and breathing, and circulation in the initial assessment and resuscitation phase. In the clinical examination the patient's symptoms and signs elicited on physical examination provide clues to the most likely drugs involved and guide early therapy especially when the cause is unidentified. The chapter lists out various investigations that include electrocardiogram, arterial blood gases, radiology and drug screening. The importance of maintaining physiological stability whilst minimizing the toxic effects of drug ingestion is paramount. The toxicity can be diminished by preventing drug absorption, inhibition of toxic metabolite formation, and augmentation of drug elimination. The general care of the unconscious patient includes regular monitoring of vital signs and organ support. The chapter lists out management of specific drugs that include salicylates (aspirin).