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General Measures in the Management of Acute Pesticide Poisoning
VI. Supportive Therapy
Supportive care is essential in the managemnet of poisoning cases, especially when patients require intensive care treatment. The following specific points should be observed:
- Intravenous fluids are given for maintenance and replacement of fluid losses.
- Intensive nursing care should be observed to avoid aspiration or the development of decubitus ulcers.
- Treat metabolic disturbances: electrolyte imbalance, hypoglycemia, hypothermia, hyperthermia.
- Monitor vital signs.
- Monitor input and output.
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VII. Disposition
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to the wards, the patient should still be observed for at
least 24 hours at the emergency room. After such time,
re-evaluation is done to determine whether the patient would
need further observation or could be sent home.
Psychiatric evaluation is important since the mode of
poisoning is often suicidal. Although the manner of poisoning
in children is usually accidental, the possibility of child
abuse should not be discounted. Family counseling and
education should be initiated while patient is in the
hospital, and continued during out-patient follow-up.
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Copyright ?2003
National Poison Control and Information
Service
