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Patient Safety

Poisoning and overdose at a glance

06 February 2025
Professional
02 February 2025
Volume 34 · Issue 3

Abstract

Poisoning and overdose are significant public health concerns in the UK, with poisoning accounting for more than 115000 hospital presentations in England in 2021–2022. Nurses are crucial in managing patients from triage to discharge. Nurses’ role in treating poisoning and overdose cases involves recognising toxidromes, initial stabilisation and symptom management. Commonly ingested substances include paracetamol, ibuprofen and illicit drugs; pharmacological interventions available include antidotes such as acetylcysteine and naloxone. Patients require a multidisciplinary approach, and collaborative care may involve clinical toxicologists, mental health professionals and social services to ensure comprehensive recovery. Ethical considerations of poisoning treatment include patient consent and the complexities of intentional overdoses. By understanding the nuances of poisoning and overdose treatment, health professionals can offer compassionate, evidence-based care.

Poisoning and overdose are increasing public health concerns in the UK, with a significant number of cases resulting in hospital admissions and deaths. In England alone, poisoning accounted for over 115000 hospital attendances between 2021 and 2022, with drug poisoning responsible for 4907 deaths in 2022 (NHS England, 2022; Office for National Statistics, 2023). Nurses, as essential frontline healthcare workers, play a pivotal role in managing poisoning cases from emergency triage to patient discharge. Their responsibilities include recognising the signs of poisoning, initiating treatments and collaborating with other health professionals.

Acute poisoning occurs when a person absorbs a toxic substance that leads to harmful effects. Poisons may be pharmaceuticals, household chemicals, industrial compounds or natural toxins from plants or animals (Owais and Khan, 2015). Poisoning may occur via ingestion, injection, inhalation or dermal exposure. It is typically categorised as either accidental or deliberate, with distinct patterns in children and adults (Sandilands and Bateman, 2016).

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Poisoning
Overdose
Nursing care
Toxicology
Emergency treatment