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Gastrointestinal decontamination in the emergency department

  • Symposium : Toxicology & Poisoning-Part I
  • Published:
The Indian Journal of Pediatrics Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Pediatric poisoning is a problem commonly encountered in the emergency department. After stabilization of airway, breathing, and circulation, one of the goals of treatment is decontamination in order to limit poison absorption and the resulting systemic toxicity. Decontamination modalities include gastric emptying (ipecac and gastric lavage), inhibiting absorption (activated charcoal), and catharsis (sorbital, magnesium citrate, and whole bowel irrigation). Each modality is discussed. Choice of modality by the practitioner must be individualized to each patient’s situation.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Emergency Medicine, The University of Texas-Houston Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA

    Pater J. Walton, John J. Fraser & Ginger W. Wilhelm

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  1. Pater J. Walton
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  2. John J. Fraser
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  3. Ginger W. Wilhelm
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Walton, P.J., Fraser, J.J. & Wilhelm, G.W. Gastrointestinal decontamination in the emergency department. Indian J Pediatr 64, 451–455 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02737747

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02737747

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