GuidelinesEML (Adult Hospital STG)
Toxicology in ICU
Description General measures Description See: Poisonings . General Measures Poisoning should always be considered in patients who present with an altered level of consciousness. A thorough collateral history and toxicology screen may assist with making the diagnosis. Toxicology screens; where available, may have varied diagnostic reliability in patients with suspected poisoning. These results sho
Description
See: Poisonings.
General Measures
- Poisoning should always be considered in patients who present with an altered level of consciousness.
- A thorough collateral history and toxicology screen may assist with making the diagnosis.
- Toxicology screens; where available, may have varied diagnostic reliability in patients with suspected poisoning. These results should always be interpreted in conjunction with a comprehensive clinical assessment.
- Consider whether positive results are due to iatrogenic administration of sedatives/analgesics commonly used to manage patients.
- Exert due caution in making the diagnosis of brain death or deciding on neurological futility if poisoning have not been excluded (See: End of life care, determination of death).
- Although patients may fit a specific toxidrome or have a history of ingesting a specific toxin, consider whether patients may have ingested more than one toxin.
For guidance on specific toxins, see: Poisonings.
Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa Adult Hospital _Chapter 23: Adult Critical Care_NEMLC Medicine Recommendations Review Cycle_ 2020_2023