[Acute poisoning with organic phosphates treated at an intensive care unit]

During the period 1.1.1976 to 31.12.1985, 23 patients were treated in an intensive care unit following acute poisoning with organic phosphates. Sixteen of the cases of poisoning were intentional and were part of attempted suicide. Eight were accidental. The severe cases of poisoning were all attempted suicides. Nineteen of the cases of poisoning occurred during the months from April to August during which these sprays are employed. The average age was 41 years ant the sex ratio men: women was 3:0. Respirator treatment was necessary in six patients. Sixteen patients were treated with a bolus injection of atropine and/or continuous infusion and six of these patients received antidote treatment with obidoxim, simultaneously. It is concluded that the majority of cases of poisoning are with suicidal intent and employ preparations which are freely obtainable and that only very few cases of poisoning occur in professional persons in connection with their employment. Treatment of cases of acute poisoning with organic phosphates is both specific and symptomatic. A therapeutic programme is established which aims primarily at ensuring free respiration, prevention of further absorption of poison, specific antidote therapy with atropine and obidoxim and symptomatic therapy.