Poisoning & Narcotics Overdose

Poisonings and drug overdoses are high-risk, time-sensitive emergencies that demand fast thinking and calm execution. Whether accidental or intentional, toxins in the body can disrupt vital functions in minutes.

Opioid Overdose

Signs & Symptoms:

  • Unresponsiveness or altered consciousness
  • Slow, shallow, or absent breathing
  • Pinpoint pupils (miosis)
  • Blue or pale lips/nails (hypoxia)

Treatment Steps:

  1. Assess vitals immediately
  2. Administer Naloxone (Narcan) intranasally or via injection
  3. Monitor response:
    • Breathing should resume within minutes
    • Consciousness may improve gradually
  4. If minimal or no response, repeat Narcan dose every 2–3 minutes as needed
  5. Start Oxygen support if respiratory depression is severe
  6. Administer a Banana Bag (IV fluids + vitamins) to aid metabolic recovery
  7. Continue monitoring until fully alert or stable enough for discharge or handoff

Narcan has a short half-life — patients may need repeat dosing or observation for rebound symptoms.

Poisoning

Common Symptoms of Ingestion or Exposure:

  • Nausea & vomiting
  • Abdominal cramping or pain
  • Excessive salivation or sweating
  • Dizziness or confusion
  • Seizures or cardiac irregularities (in severe cases)

Treatment Steps:

  1. Quickly identify the suspected poison or source
    • Ask about recent food, drink, medications, or substances
  2. Administer Activated Charcoal (if appropriate and patient is conscious)
    • Helps bind poison in GI tract to prevent absorption
    • May induce nausea or vomiting as side effect
  3. Provide emesis container and monitor patient closely
  4. Track vital signs and watch for deterioration
  5. Start a Banana Bag IV to restore hydration, electrolytes, and essential vitamins
  6. If source is known and time-sensitive (e.g., antifreeze, bleach, etc.), consult poison-specific antidote protocols

Optional RP Element: Have the lab analyse vomit or blood samples to confirm toxin if needed for storyline or realism.

Notes:

  • Always prioritize airway and breathing in any suspected overdose or poisoning
  • Never induce vomiting unless directed or appropriate
  • Escalate to ICU-level care if patient condition worsens or if unknown substances were involved