Poisoning and Overdose Emergencies Flashcards
Poison
Any substance that can harm the body by altering cell structure or function
Toxin
poisonous substance secreted by bacteria, plants, or animals
Antidote
substance that will neutralize the poison or its effects
withdrawal
referring to alcohol or drug withdrawal in which the patient’s body reacts severely when deprived of the abused substance
Delirium tremens (DTs)
severe reaction that can be part of alcohol withdrawal, characterized by sweating, trembling, anxiety, and hallucinations. severe alcohol withdrawal with the DTs can lead to death if untreated
uppers
stimulants such as amphetamines that affect the central nervous system to exite the user
Downers
depressants, such as barbiturates, that depress the central nervous system, which are often used to bring on a more relaxed state of mind
Narcotics
a class of drugs that affect the nervous system and change many normal body activities. their legal use is for the relief of pain. illicit use is to produce an intense state of relaxation
hallucinogens
mind-affecting or mind altering drugs that act on the central nervous system to produce excitement and distortion of perceptions
volatile chemicals
vaporizing compounds, such as cleaning fluid that are breathed in by the abuser to produce a “high”