The evaluation and management of acute poisoning emergencies.

Abstract

Emergency physicians will regularly be called upon to care for poisoned patients. The purpose of this article is to review the general approach to the poisoned patient. Specific signs and symptoms will be identified that may clue the clinician into a specific toxin class as a diagnosis. Necessary testing in poisonings will be highlighted. This article will also introduce the basics of gastrointestinal decontamination and antidotes against select poisons.