MODULE 11 - TOXICOLOGY Flashcards
Provide an example of the following categories of asphyxiant; Simple, Chemical, Irritant / corrosive.
Simple Asphyxiant Example: Nitrogen gas, which displaces oxygen in enclosed spaces.
Chemical Asphyxiant Example: Carbon monoxide (CO), which binds to hemoglobin and reduces oxygen transport.
Irritant/Corrosive Asphyxiant Example: Ammonia, which irritates the respiratory tract and can lead to airway obstruction.
Describe the 3 phases of envenomation and the recommended management of a suspected snake bite.
Local Phase: Localized pain, swelling, and tissue damage.
Systemic Phase: Symptoms beyond the bite site, such as nausea, vomiting, and weakness.
Delayed Phase: Delayed complications, including infection or organ damage.
Management: DO NOT Clean the wound, immobilize the affected limb, apply a pressure immobilization bandage, and seek medical help.
Describe the toxic effects of organophosphate poisoning and the classic clinical presentation.
Toxic Effects: Inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, leading to excessive acetylcholine activity.
Classic Clinical Presentation: Excessive salivation, lacrimation, urination, defecation (SLUD), miosis, muscle twitching, weakness, respiratory distress.
What are four emergencies that may result from drug abuse seen in the prehospital setting?
Four emergencies that may result from drug abuse in the prehospital setting include:
- Respiratory Depression:
Cause: Opioid overdose, sedative overdose (e.g., benzodiazepines).
Clinical Presentation:Slow or absent breathing, cyanosis, altered mental status. - Stimulant Overdose (e.g., Cocaine, Methamphetamine):
Cause: Excessive use of stimulant drugs.
Clinical Presentation: Agitation, hyperactivity, elevated heart rate, hypertension, seizures, hyperthermia. - Benzodiazepine Overdose:
Cause: Excessive use of benzodiazepine medications.
Clinical Presentation: Sedation, confusion, respiratory depression. - Polydrug Overdose:
Cause: Concurrent use of multiple substances (e.g., opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants).
Clinical Presentation: Variable and complex, depending on the combination of drugs used.
In what different ways can opioids be taken by a user and what main effects will they have?
Oral, intranasal, intravenous, inhalation.
Main Effects: Pain relief, sedation, euphoria, respiratory depression.
What are the common side effects seen in a narcotic overdose and what is your treatment plan?
Common Side Effects: Respiratory depression, pinpoint pupils, decreased consciousness.
Treatment: Naloxone administration to reverse opioid effects.
What conditions are benzodiazepines commonly prescribed for?
Commonly Prescribed for: Anxiety, insomnia, seizures, muscle spasms.
Adverse Effects: Sedation, dizziness, impaired coordination, dependence.
What adverse effects would you likely see in a suspected methamphetamine overdose?
Agitation, hallucinations, hyperthermia, cardiovascular complications (e.g., elevated heart rate, hypertension).
What adverse effects would you likely see in a suspected hallucinogen overdose?
Hallucinations, anxiety, panic attacks, psychosis, potentially dangerous behavior.
What are the desired actions of the following cardiac medications which are common causes of poisoning death; Digoxin, Beta-blockers, Calcium channel blockers.
Digoxin: Increases cardiac contractility.
Beta-blockers: Reduce heart rate and blood pressure.
Calcium Channel Blockers: Dilate blood vessels and reduce heart rate.
Why is paracetamol overdose responsible for such a high incident of poisoning cases?
High Incidence: Commonly available over-the-counter, leading to accidental or intentional overdoses.
Toxic Metabolite Formation: Can cause severe liver damage.
When is the most critical time for an alcoholic going through withdrawal from alcohol?
Most Critical Time: The first 24-72 hours after discontinuation. Risk of seizures and delirium tremens is highest during this period.
