CPR Toxicological Emergencies and Overdose Management

Question 1

What is the first-line antidote for reversing opioid-induced respiratory depression?

Accepted Answer

Naloxone

Answer

Naloxone (Narcan) is a competitive opioid receptor antagonist and is the standard first-line treatment to reverse opioid-induced respiratory depression.

Question 2

A patient presents with miosis, bradycardia, bronchospasm, and excessive secretions after unknown substance ingestion. Which toxidrome does this represent?

Accepted Answer

Cholinergic

Answer

Cholinergic toxidrome (SLUDGE/DUMBELS) presents with miosis, bradycardia, bronchospasm, and excessive secretions, typically from organophosphate or carbamate exposure.

Question 3

What is the recommended initial adult IV dose of naloxone for suspected opioid overdose?

Accepted Answer

0.4 to 2 mg

Answer

The standard initial adult IV dose of naloxone ranges from 0.4 to 2 mg, titrated to restore adequate ventilation without precipitating full withdrawal in opioid-tolerant patients.

Question 4

Which combination of antidotes is used to treat severe organophosphate poisoning?

Accepted Answer

Pralidoxime (2-PAM) and atropine

Answer

Atropine reverses muscarinic effects and pralidoxime (2-PAM) reactivates acetylcholinesterase before aging occurs, making them the dual treatment for organophosphate poisoning.

Question 5

A patient with tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) overdose develops a wide QRS complex and hypotension. What is the treatment of choice?

Accepted Answer

Sodium bicarbonate IV

Answer

Sodium bicarbonate alkalinizes the serum and increases the sodium gradient, narrowing the QRS complex and improving hypotension caused by TCA-induced sodium channel blockade.

(CPR) Certified Paramedic Response Practice Test

(CPR) Certified Paramedic Response Practice Test

CPR Toxicological Emergencies and Overdose Management