Poisons

Signs and symptoms of inhaled poisons

Difficulty breathing

Chest pain

Coughing

Hoarseness

Headache, confusion, AMS

Seizures

Treatment for inhaled poisons

Move patient from dangerous area

Open airway and provide high-flow oxygen

History, physical exam and vitals

Transport with containers, bottle and labels (or take pictures)

Reassess enroute

Signs and symptoms of CO poisoning

Headache (band around head)

Dizziness and nausea

Breathing difficulties

Cyanosis

Possible multiple victims

Treatment for CO poisoning

High flow oxygen

CO bonds to RBCs more easily than O2 though, so treatment can take hours

What does singed nasal or facial hair indicate?

Possible airway burns which can cause airway swelling. Immediate ALS is required.

Why is smoke inhalation dangerous?

Can contain poisonous and toxic substances. Substances can irritate the skin the skin and eyes, damage the lungs and progress to respiratory or cardiac arrest.

Signs and symptoms of smoke inhalation

Difficulty breathing

Coughing

Smoky or chemical breath

Black residue in mouth, nose or sputum (low respiratory mucus)

Singed nasal or facial hair

Treatment for smoke inhalation

Move patient to safe area

Administer high-flow oxygen

Monitor closely (airway burns may lead to airway swelling)

What are detergent suicides?

Mixing two chemicals together to create hydrogen sulfide. Commonly performed in enclose spaces.

Treatments for absorbed poison (through skin)

Assess for immediate life threats

History, physical exam and vitals

Brush off any powder and irrigate

Irrigate skin and eyes for minimum 20 minutes during transport

Bring all containers with transport

Reassess

Signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse

Alcohol on breath

Unsteady on feet

Slurred and rambling speech

Flushed and feeling warm

Nausea and vomiting

Poor coordination

Blurred vision

Confusion and AMS

Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal

May suffer from delirium tremens (DTs). Can be serious, resulting in tremors, hallucinations and seizures.

Care for alcohol abuse

Keep suction ready for vomiting

Stay alert for obstructed airways

Monitor vitals

Gather history

Stay alert for seizures

What are uppers, downers, narcotics, hallucinogens and volatile chemicals?

Uppers stimulate the CNS. Cocaine, amphetamines.

Downers suppress the CN. Barbiturates, roofies, GHB.

Narcotics are painkillers. Heroin, codeine and morphine.

Hallucinogens create intense excitement and distorted perception. LSD, XTC, PCP.

Volatile chemicals produce chemicals that are inhaled.

Signs and symptoms of uppers

Excitement, restlessness

Increased pulse and respirations

Sweating

Hyperthermia

Insomnia

Signs and symptoms of downers

Sluggish and poor communication

Decreased pulse and respirations

Signs and symptoms of narcotics

Lethargy/sleepiness

Pinpoint pupils

Cool skin

Respiration depression

Coma

Signs and symptoms of hallucinogens

Rapid pulse

Dilated pupils

Flushed face

Seeing or hearing things

Signs and symptoms of volatile chemicals

Dazed and disoriented

Swollen membranes in nose or mouth

Numbness or tingling inside head

Changes in heart rhythm

May be chemical residue on face or in bag

Treatment for substance abuse

Monitor for airway issues

Provide oxygen and assist as needed

Treat for shock

Talk to patient to keep calm

Physical exam

Look for injection sites

Transport ASAP

Medical control for further treatment

Constrain if needed per local guidelines