That's a Phat Antidote: Intravenous Fat Emulsions and Toxicological Emergencies. (July 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Schultz, Amy E.; Lewis, Temeka; Reed, Brittany S.; Weant, Kyle A.; Justice, Stephanie Baker
• Other Names: Weant Kyle A. section editor.
• Is Part Of: Advanced emergency nursing journal. Volume 37:Number 3(2015)
• Publication Date: 2015-07
• Subjects: antidote -- ingestion -- lipid emulsion -- overdose -- toxicological emergency; Emergency nursing -- Periodicals; Emergency medicine -- Periodicals; 616.02505
• DOI: 10.1097/TME.0000000000000067
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1931-4485

Abstract

Abstract : Health care providers in the emergency department (ED) frequently find themselves caring for patients who may have overdosed on a medication(s) or other toxic substance. These patients can prove to be a challenge, as providers must try to determine the substance(s) involved so that the appropriate treatment can be initiated. For those patients who are hemodynamically unstable upon presentation, it is important to note that supportive care is of the utmost importance, as there are few substances that have antidotes available. In these situations, lipid emulsion can be considered. This is especially true in the setting of the following toxicities: local anesthetics, β-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and the tricyclic antidepressants. Even though lipid emulsion may not be used that frequently in the ED, it is important to be aware of its role in the setting of toxicological emergencies, how it should be dosed and administered, and the necessary safety precautions.