Paramedics’ Role In The Early Detection And Treatment Of Poisoning And Overdose

Abstract

Poisoning and overdose constitute a significant global health burden, with acute poisoning causing substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. Paramedics play a pivotal role in the early detection and treatment of these emergencies during the prehospital phase. This review comprehensively examines the role of paramedics in managing poisoning and overdose, focusing on their interventions, protocols, challenges, and future directions. Key aspects of prehospital management include scene safety assessment, clinical evaluation, utilization of point-of-care diagnostics, airway and circulatory support, antidote administration, and decontamination. Paramedics face challenges such as limited diagnostic tools, incomplete exposure information, occupational hazards, and complex legal and ethical issues surrounding antidote administration. Innovations in artificial intelligence-powered biosensors, portable toxicology kits, community paramedicine programs, and interdisciplinary collaboration between emergency medical services, public health, and mental health services represent promising avenues for enhancing prehospital care in poisoning and overdose. Strengthening paramedic training, integrating real-time toxicological support, and developing evidence-based protocols are essential for optimizing patient outcomes. This review highlights the critical role of paramedics in the early recognition and management of poisoning and overdose emergencies while emphasizing the need for continued research and innovation to address the evolving challenges in prehospital toxicology.