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A Novel Approach for the Administration of Medications and Fluids in Emergency Scenarios and Settings
Published on: November 9, 2016
[Management of the drunken patient]
1Département des urgences, Hôpital neuchâtelois, Maladière 45, 2000 Neuchâtel. line.wolter@h-ne.ch
Revue Medicale Suisse
|September 13, 2013
Summary
Acute ethanol intoxication presents variably in emergency departments. Diagnosis requires exclusion of other conditions, comprehensive exams, and supportive care, with specific treatments for agitation.
Area of Science:
- Emergency Medicine
- Toxicology
- Clinical Presentation
Context:
- Acute ethanol intoxication is a common emergency department presentation.
- Clinical signs range widely from mild inebriation to coma or agitation.
- Requires a thorough patient examination and diagnostic workup.
Purpose:
- To outline the diagnostic and management approach for acute ethanol intoxication.
- To emphasize the importance of excluding other conditions.
- To guide treatment strategies for agitated patients.
Summary:
- Acute ethanol intoxication necessitates a comprehensive evaluation, including capillary blood glucose testing.
- It is a diagnosis of exclusion, often requiring advanced imaging like CT scans in trauma cases.
- Management is primarily supportive, with pharmacological interventions for agitation and mandatory consultation with an alcohology team prior to discharge.
Impact:
- Improved patient outcomes through timely and accurate diagnosis.
- Reduced misdiagnosis by emphasizing exclusion criteria.
- Standardized management protocols for emergency department personnel.
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