Toxin Exposure: Insecticides, Herbicides, Rodenticides

First Things First (assess & treat for the following)

  • ABCs
  • Airway: controlling secretions, mental status. If airway is compromised, intubate.
  • Breathing: if hypoxic, O2 supplementation. If respiratory failure, intubate.
  • Circulation: weak pulses, hypotension. Treat with fluids and/or pressors.
  • Seizures: treat with benzodiazepines.
  • Coma: intubate, IV access, and place on monitor
  • Immediate and vigorous decontamination
  • Insecticides: respiratory failure, bradycardia
    • Organophosphates
    • Carbamates
    • Organochlorines
    • Pyrethrins
  • Herbicides: skeletal muscle toxicity could lead to respiratory failure and/or rhabdomyolysis
    • Chlorophenoxy herbicides
    • Bipyridyl herbicides
      • Paraquat
      • Diquat
    • Urea-substitute herbicides
    • Organophosphorus herbicides

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