Emergency Medicine and Critical CareDifficulty 3/5
In which situation is inducing emesis contraindicated?
- AIngestion of a corrosive substance or in a patient with reduced consciousness
- BIngestion of a known toxic dose of grapes within the previous hour
- CIngestion of an over-the-counter medication in a stable, alert patient
- DRecent ingestion of a large quantity of chocolate in an alert dog
Show answer and rationale
Correct: A. Corrosives cause further injury on the way back up, and a patient with reduced consciousness cannot protect the airway. Both are standard contraindications to emesis.
- D — Chocolate in an alert dog is a common indication for emesis.
- B — Recent grape ingestion in a stable patient is an indication.
- C — An alert, stable patient with a recent ingestion may be a candidate.