N213: Health Differences Across the Life Span 3

N213: Health Differences Across the Lifespan 3 Study Guide • Risk for injury related to chemical exposure • Altered thought processes related to change in oxygenation and metabolic functions • Knowledge deficit related to prevention of chemical exposure and poisoning or drug overdose Nursing interventions for accidental poisoning: • Provide immediate rescue for breathing and circulation if patient is unconscious or having distress; prepare for intubation if necessary; give fresh air or supplemental oxygen; elevate head of bed and use continuous oxygen saturation levels • Monitor vital signs, fluid intake/output, and watch for changes in mental status or consciousness • Give specific antidote or prevention measures to prevent absorption of more poison into the system • If exposure was via skin, remove clothing and flush skin with water • If patient is unconscious, give glucose, oxygen, Naloxone/Narcan, and possibly activated charcoal • Contact the poison control center for specific poison information and antidotes • Assess whether poisoning was an attempt at suicide and refer to mental health • Depending on the substance, use syrup of ipecac to induce vomiting and give a second dose if not effective; never induce vomiting if a corrosive substance was ingested to prevent burns to the esophagus; proper antidotes for corrosive substances are chelating agents, milk of magnesia, milk, or activated charcoal • Administer gastric lavage with 30 ml of saline via nasogastric tube • Run an IV at fast rate to flush poison from the system, especially if a long amount of time has passed since ingestion; always check labs for acid-base balance and cardiovascular status before using this method; if patient is compromised, dialysis may be more appropriate • Keep patient oriented and provide support • Teach the patient and caregivers about chemical safety, poison control numbers, medication safety, and keeping areas ventilated when using products that cause fumes in theair • Teach patients to keep medications in original containers and never place them in unmarked containers Expected outcomes for accidental poisoning: • Patient maintains stable respiratory status, patent airway, and adequate oxygenation • Patient maintains appropriate level of consciousness and mental status • Verbalizes increased comfort and decreased level of anxiety • Maintains stable vital signs • Remains free from injury • Verbalizes understanding of chemical safety and poisoning prevention ©2017 Achieve Test Prep Page 154 of 204