Paracetamol Overdose Flashcards Preview

Acute Care & Trauma > Paracetamol Overdose > Flashcards

Flashcards in Paracetamol Overdose Deck (14)
Loading flashcards...
1
Q

Define Paracetamol Overdose?

A

Excessive ingestion of paracetamol causing toxicity

2
Q

What is the max recommended dose of Paracetamol?

A

2x500 mg tablets

4x24hrs

3
Q

What intake of paracetamol overdose can cause hepatic necrosis?

A

Intake > 12g

4
Q

What are the risk factors of Paracetamol Overdose?

A

Chronic Alcohol Abusers
Patients on enzyme-inducing drugs (e.g. anticonvulsants)
Malnourished
Anorexia Nervosa
HIV
Paracetamol Overdose is commonly associated with ingestion of large amounts of alcohol

5
Q

What is the epidemiology of paracetamol overdose?

A

Most common intentional drug overdose in the UK

Causes 100 deaths/yr in the UK

6
Q

What’s important to remember when considering the presenting symptoms of Paracetamol Overdose?

A

Make sure you ascertain the timing and quantity of overdose and presence of risk factors

7
Q

What are the presenting symptoms of Paracetamol Overdose in the first 24 hours?

A

Asymptomatic
Mild nausea/vomiting
Lethargy
Malaise

8
Q

What are the presenting symptoms of Paracetamol Overdose in the first 24-72 hours?

A

RUQ pain

Vomiting

9
Q

What are the presenting symptoms of Paracetamol Overdose after 72+ hours?

A
Increased confusion (encephalopathy)
Jaundice
10
Q

What are the signs of Paracetamol Overdose on physical examination in the first 24 hours?

A

No signs

11
Q

What are the signs of Paracetamol Overdose on physical examination in the 24-72 hours?

A

Liver enlargement and Tenderness

12
Q

What are the signs of Paracetamol Overdose on physical examination after 72 hours?

A

Jaundice
Coagulopathy
Hypoglycaemia
Renal Angle Tenderness

13
Q

What investigations would you do for Paracetamol Overdose?

A
Measure Paracetamol Overdose 
FBC
U&Es 
Glucose 
LFTs 
Clotting Screen
Lactate 
ABG
14
Q

When are peak paracetamol levels?

A

4 hrs after ingestion