Chapter 22 Part 1 Flashcards
Poison
Any substance—liquid
Toxicology
The study of toxins
Toxin
A drug or substance that is poisonous to a human and causes certain adverse effects that can potentially lead to death.
Overdose
A poisoning in which the patient has been exposed to an excessive dose of a drug.
Substance Abuse
The inappropriate use of a substance or medication.
Ingestion
A route by which a drug or substance can be swallowed with absorption occurring through the gastrointestinal tract.
Inhalation
Breathing a poison—typically a gas
Injection
A route by which a poison can be injected under the skin
Pulmonary Edema
Fluid leaking around and into the alveoli
Bronchospasm
Contraction of the muscles in the bronchi and bronchioles
Local Reaction
A reaction to a poison that typically causes edema (swelling) at the site of injection
Systemic Reaction
A reaction that can occur from injection of a poison
Accidental Poisoning
Poisonings that are unintentional and often involve young children.
Household Chemicals
Substances that are most often involved in unintentional or accidental poisonings.
Homicide
Intentional poisonings that result in the death of another person.
Suicide
Intentional poisonings that result in the death of the individual.
Gastrointestinal Tract
The system in the body through which ingested substances are absorbed
Alveoli
Tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs
Edema
Swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body’s tissues.
Signs and Symptoms
Indicators of poisoning that can vary based on the route of exposure and type of poison.
Respiratory Distress
Severe difficulty in breathing that can indicate the presence of an inhaled poison.
Delayed Effect
A situation where the signs and symptoms of poisoning may not present for several hours after exposure.
Acid Poisoning
Poisoning caused by contact with strong acids
Injection Poisonings
Poisonings that can result from drug use or from bites and stings.