Module 1: Introduction

In this introductory module, we will cover the structure of the course and provide some background information to set the stage for the clinical topics that follow. By the end, you will understand the scope of the program, the learning objectives, and the significance of this subject matter for your day-to-day practice.

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Sections

1. Course Logistics 

– This online course consists of 10 modules focused on the evaluation and management of poisoned patients in emergency and critical care settings.

– It is designed for clinicians looking to gain expertise in recognizing common toxidromes, ordering appropriate diagnostic tests, providing supportive care, utilizing decontamination techniques, administering antidotes, and determining the proper patient disposition. 

– The course duration is approximately 10-12 hours in total. Modules can be completed at your own pace over multiple sessions.

– Content includes text explanations, clinical guideline summaries, case examples, knowledge application questions, and a final assessment.

– Upon successful completion, you will receive a digital certificate of achievement.

2. Background on Poisoning Epidemiology

– Poison control centers receive over 2 million reports of toxic exposures annually in the United States.

– While most are acute and unintentional exposures managed safely at home, around 3-4% of cases require critical care.

– Pharmaceuticals, illicit substances, household products, envenomations, and environmental toxins are common culprits.

– Mortality is highest with sedative-hypnotics, opioids, cardiovascular drugs, acetaminophen, antidepressants, and stimulants.

– At-risk groups include adolescents, adults aged 20-49, and geriatric patients. Males have higher rates of poisoning deaths compared to females.

3. Relevance to Emergency and Critical Care Practice

– Poisoning patients present frequently to emergency departments and urgent care centers.

– Internists, emergency physicians, intensivists, and clinical pharmacists need skills to recognize toxidromes, order the appropriate diagnostic tests, and provide timely antidotes and supportive care.

– Strong knowledge of toxicology improves the ability to stabilize critically ill patients, avoid adverse drug events, and determine the proper patient disposition.

– Mastering this subject area leads to better patient outcomes and survival rates in acute poisonings.

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This concludes the introduction to our course. In Module 2, we will begin reviewing the clinical approach to the initial evaluation and stabilization of the poisoned patient.