
emDocs - February 04, 2019 - Authors: Neofitidis D, Uribe J and Waseem M
Edited by: Koyfman A and Long B
"Pearls
- Begin with ABCs, bedside glucose level and possibly Naloxone if overdose suspected, expose patient for complete evaluation.
- Remember there are both medical and trauma chameleons to alcohol intoxication.
- Obtain alcohol level if diagnosis of alcohol intoxication is in question or if mental status is not improving after a few hours of observation.
- If head trauma is minor, deferring CT brain may be reasonable with frequent monitoring, but use your clinical gestalt.
- If CT C-spine is negative and no gross motor deficit on exam, cervical collar can be cleared.
- Look to the hospital policy regarding disposition of intoxicated patients."