Acute Medicine | Toxicology | Investigation and management of paracetamol overdose

Investigation and Management of Paracetamol Overdose
Session overview
Description
This session considers the basic pathophysiology underlying paracetamol overdoses. It then discusses appropriate investigation and management of the clinical problem.

Learning objectives

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Describe what constitutes a paracetamol overdose
• List the investigations necessary to diagnose and assess the severity and complications of an overdose
• Explain the management strategies for paracetamol overdose and its complications
• Recall the NICE guidelines with reference to self-harm, short-term physical and psychological management and secondary prevention of paracetamol overdoses

Paracetamol or acetaminophen is a widely used analgesic and antipyretic, available prescribed and over-the-counter.

Paracetamol toxicity is one of the most common causes of poisoning and a common cause of acute liver failure.

This session examines the diagnostic criteria, tests for an overdose, different treatment options and how to assess severity of a paracetamol overdose.