Evaluation and Management of Toxicological Causes of Delirium

We present a review of commonly ingested drug overdoses and toxidromes to assist in rapid diagnosis and treatment of these clinically challenging patients.Recent FindingsThere is a frequent overlap in the clinical presentation of many toxic ingestions. Key physical exam, electrocardiographic, and toxic-metabolic findings can help identify these drugs and direct early therapy. There are limited randomized controlled trials for many treatment strategies in the intoxicated patient, but recent large observational and meta-analysis have improved the understanding and utility of common antidotes.SummaryEarly identification of the correct toxidrome and offending agent is important to initiate life-saving treatment. Early involvement of local toxicologists is essential to assist in management of these patients.
Source: Current Emergency and Hospital Medicine Reports - Category: Emergency Medicine Source Type: research