Podcast Beta
Questions and Answers
Describe the process of decontamination for toxic exposures that affect large dermal areas.
Healthcare providers wearing personal protective equipment or observing universal precautions should assist with undressing and washing the patient. Contaminated clothing is collected and properly disposed. Decontamination ideally occurs in a separate area adjacent to the ED, minimizing cross-contamination.
What is the process for decontaminating the eyes after a toxic exposure?
Eye exposures may require local anesthetic (e.g., 0.5% tetracaine) instillation and lid retractors to facilitate copious irrigation with crystalloid solution. Alkalis produce greater injury than acids due to deep tissue penetration via liquefaction so that prolonged irrigation (1 to 2 hours) may be required. Ten minutes after irrigation (allowing equilibration of crystalloid and conjunctival sac pH), conjunctival sac pH is tested. Irrigation continues until pH is between 7.2 and 7.4. Ophthalmologic consultation is indicated for all ocular alkali injuries.
Is gastric decontamination a routine part of poisoned patient management?
No, gastric decontamination is not a routine part of poisoned patient management.
Study Notes
- Toxic exposures affecting large dermal areas require decontamination.
- Healthcare providers wearing personal protective equipment or observing universal precautions should assist with undressing and washing the patient.
- Contaminated clothing is collected and properly disposed.
- Decontamination ideally occurs in a separate area adjacent to the ED, minimizing cross-contamination.
- Eye exposures may require local anesthetic (e.g., 0.5% tetracaine) instillation and lid retractors to facilitate copious irrigation with crystalloid solution.
- Alkalis produce greater injury than acids due to deep tissue penetration via liquefaction so that prolonged irrigation (1 to 2 hours) may be required.
- Ten minutes after irrigation (allowing equilibration of crystalloid and conjunctival sac pH), conjunctival sac pH is tested. Irrigation continues until pH is between 7.2 and 7.4.
- Ophthalmologic consultation is indicated for all ocular alkali injuries.
- Gastric decontamination is not a routine part of poisoned patient management.
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Description
Test your knowledge of decontamination procedures and management of toxic exposures with this quiz. Covering topics such as dermal decontamination, ocular injuries, and gastric decontamination, this quiz will challenge your understanding of handling toxic exposures.
