Activated charcoal is indicated for which type of poisoning and within how many minutes?

Activated charcoal is indicated for which type of poisoning and within how many minutes?

• A. Ingested poisons; within 60 minutes
• B. Ingested poisons; within 20 minutes
• C. Absorbed poisons; within 20 minutes
• D. Inhaled poisons; within 20 minutes

Answer: (B)

Activated charcoal works by adsorbing many ingested toxins in the GI tract, helping prevent their absorption into the bloodstream. It’s useful when the poisoning is from an oral ingestion and is most effective when given soon after ingestion, before the substance has moved into the bloodstream. In this context, the best choice specifies ingested poisons and a 20-minute window, highlighting the need for rapid administration to maximize adsorption before absorption progresses. It isn’t effective for poisons that have already been absorbed or for inhaled poisons, and while guidelines sometimes cite longer windows, this item emphasizes the earlier 20-minute timeframe. Remember to avoid charcoal if the patient cannot protect their airway or if the substance is caustic or a hydrocarbon.

Activated charcoal works by adsorbing many ingested toxins in the GI tract, helping prevent their absorption into the bloodstream. It’s useful when the poisoning is from an oral ingestion and is most effective when given soon after ingestion, before the substance has moved into the bloodstream. In this context, the best choice specifies ingested poisons and a 20-minute window, highlighting the need for rapid administration to maximize adsorption before absorption progresses. It isn’t effective for poisons that have already been absorbed or for inhaled poisons, and while guidelines sometimes cite longer windows, this item emphasizes the earlier 20-minute timeframe. Remember to avoid charcoal if the patient cannot protect their airway or if the substance is caustic or a hydrocarbon.