Opiate Overdose/Poisoning

Question 1

What are the cardinal signs of opiate poisoning. (3)

Answer 1

Pinpoint pupils.
Reduced respiratory rate.
Coma.

Question 2

What are the features of opiate overdose. (16)

Answer 2

Hypothermia. 
Reduced respiratory rate and ventilation. 
Hypoglycaemia. 
Convulsions. 
Hypotension. 
Relative bradycardia. 
Hallucinations. 
Slurred speech. 
Sedation. 
Coma. 
Ataxia. 
Reduced muscle tone. 
Miosis. 
Ileus. 
Respiratory failure. 
(Needle tracks on patient).

Question 3

What has been reported in severe heroine overdose.

Answer 3

Non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema.

Question 4

When can opiate withdrawal present.

Answer 4

Within 12hours of last dose.

Question 5

What are the causes of opiate overdose. (2)

Answer 5

Accidental overdose of medicinal opiates.

Misuse of illicit drugs.

Question 6

What group of people are most affected by accidental opiate overdose.

Answer 6

The elderly with prescribed strong opioid preparations.

Question 7

What may be visible on the arms of a patient suffering from an opiate overdose.

Answer 7

Track marks from needles.

Question 8

What does severe opiate poisoning result in. (4)

Answer 8

Respiratory depression.
Hypotension.
Non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema.
Hypothermia.

Question 9

What can severe opiate overdose lead to. (2)

Answer 9

Respiratory arrest.

Aspiration of gastric contents.

Question 10

What drug is given to treat opiate poisoning.

Answer 10

Naloxone.

Question 11

What may need to be prescribed to a patient who has an opiate dependency.

Answer 11

Methadone.