RT Book, Section A1 Smollin, Craig A1 Olson, Kent R. A2 Papadakis, Maxine A. A2 McPhee, Stephen J. A2 Rabow, Michael W. SR Print(0) ID 1175794788 T1 Initial Evaluation: Poisoning or Overdose T2 Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment 2021 YR 2021 FD 2021 PB McGraw-Hill Education PP New York, NY SN 9781260469868 LK accessmedicine.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1175794788 RD 2023/02/05 AB Patients with drug overdoses or poisoning may initially have no symptoms or they may have varying degrees of overt intoxication. The asymptomatic patient may have been exposed to or may have ingested a lethal dose, but not yet exhibit any manifestations of toxicity. It is important to (1) quickly assess the potential danger, (2) consider gut and skin decontamination to prevent absorption, (3) treat complications if they occur, and (4) observe the asymptomatic patient for an appropriate interval.