Toxicology, Environmental & Infectious Diseases Flashcards

What is the antidote for opioid overdose?

Answer: Naloxone

Naloxone is a specific opioid antagonist that rapidly reverses the effects of opioid overdose. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, displacing opioids and blocking their effects, particularly respiratory depression. This can quickly restore normal breathing and consciousness in someone experiencing an opioid overdose.

What is a symptom of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Answer: Headache and confusion

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that binds to hemoglobin more readily than oxygen, leading to cellular hypoxia. Common symptoms of CO poisoning, often mistaken for flu, include headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. Severe poisoning can lead to loss of consciousness, seizures, and death due to oxygen deprivation to vital organs.

How is heat stroke treated?

Answer: Cool and hydrate

Heat stroke is a severe, life-threatening condition caused by the body overheating, often due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or physical exertion in the heat. The primary treatment involves rapid cooling of the body, such as with ice packs or cool water immersion, and rehydration to lower core body temperature and restore fluid balance.

What is the first action in suspected sepsis?

Answer: Antibiotics

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by the body's overwhelming response to an infection, leading to organ dysfunction. Administering broad-spectrum antibiotics as quickly as possible is critical in suspected sepsis to target the underlying infection and prevent its progression. Early antibiotic therapy significantly improves patient outcomes and survival rates.

Which lab helps confirm infection?

Answer: WBC count

A White Blood Cell (WBC) count, also known as a leukocyte count, is a common laboratory test used to help identify and monitor infections. An elevated WBC count (leukocytosis) often indicates that the body's immune system is actively fighting an infection, as it produces more white blood cells to combat pathogens.

What condition follows prolonged cold exposure?

Answer: Hypothermia

Hypothermia is a dangerous drop in body temperature, typically below 95°F (35°C), caused by prolonged exposure to cold environments. When the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, vital systems begin to shut down, leading to symptoms like shivering, confusion, and eventually loss of consciousness and cardiac arrest if not treated.

What is used for insecticide poisoning?

Answer: Atropine

Organophosphate insecticide poisoning causes overstimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system due to inhibition of acetylcholinesterase. Atropine is the primary antidote, acting as a competitive antagonist at muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. It helps reverse life-threatening symptoms like bradycardia, bronchospasm, and excessive secretions.

What PPE is essential in infection control?

Answer: Gloves and mask

Gloves and masks are essential components of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for infection control. Gloves protect healthcare workers from direct contact with blood, body fluids, and contaminated surfaces, while masks prevent the inhalation of airborne pathogens and the spread of respiratory droplets. Together, they form a crucial barrier against transmission.

How are airborne diseases prevented?

Answer: N95 and isolation

Airborne diseases, such as tuberculosis or measles, are spread through tiny particles that remain suspended in the air. Prevention requires specialized measures like placing infected patients in airborne isolation rooms with negative pressure and healthcare workers wearing N95 respirators. These respirators filter out at least 95% of airborne particles, providing superior protection.