Management of Ingested Poisons

Management of Ingested Poisons (EGAM)

1. Gastric Lavage

• Also known as stomach pumping or gastric irrigation.

• Purpose: Cleaning out the contents of the stomach.

2. Process (PIFS)

• Preparation:

  • Doctor may administer medication (anesthesia) (e.g., XYLOCAINE) to numb the throat, reducing gagging and irritation.

• Insertion:

  • A lubricated tube is inserted through the mouth or nose.

  • The tube is threaded through the esophagus (connects mouth to stomach) into the stomach.

• Flushing:

  • Water or saline solution may be sprayed down the tube before suction.

  • Saline helps prevent electrolyte imbalances during fluid removal.

• Suction:

  • The doctor applies suction to remove the stomach contents.