Paracetamol Overdose

NAC by treatment nomogram

First 30 seconds

  1. 1Time of ingestion (single vs staggered)
  2. 2IV access, bloods (paracetamol level + INR + LFT + U&E + glucose + VBG)
  3. 3Activated charcoal 50 g if <1 h and willing
  4. 4Plot 4-hour level on treatment nomogram

Hepatotoxicity from depletion of glutathione by NAPQI when paracetamol ingested >150 mg/kg (or >75 mg/kg + risk factor).

A

Airway

  • Patent? Talking? Stridor?
  • Suction, jaw-thrust, adjuncts, definitive airway if needed
B

Breathing

  • RR, SpO₂, auscultate, percuss
  • O₂ to target sats, NIV / intubate as required
C

Circulation

  • HR, BP, cap refill, JVP
  • 2× large-bore IV, bloods, monitor, ECG
D

Disability

  • AVPU/GCS, pupils, glucose, temp
E

Exposure

  • Full exposure, skin, rash, bleeding, lines, infection source
View flowchart algorithm
WardRound

WardRound

Clinical Decisions in Seconds