Contraindications to activated charcoal include which of the following?

Contraindications to activated charcoal include which of the following?

• A. Ingestion of alkali, acid, or petroleum
• B. Decreased LOC
• C. Patients unable to swallow
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Activated charcoal binds many toxins in the GI tract, but its use is limited by airway safety and the nature of the ingested substance. If a patient has a decreased level of consciousness or cannot protect their airway, giving charcoal risks aspiration and lung injury, so it is contraindicated. If the patient cannot swallow safely, administration is not feasible and also risks aspiration. Ingestions of caustic substances (acids or alkalis) or petroleum hydrocarbons are contraindications because charcoal does not effectively adsorb these materials, and aspiration can cause serious pulmonary injury. Because each of these situations is a real contraindication, all of the above apply.

Activated charcoal binds many toxins in the GI tract, but its use is limited by airway safety and the nature of the ingested substance. If a patient has a decreased level of consciousness or cannot protect their airway, giving charcoal risks aspiration and lung injury, so it is contraindicated. If the patient cannot swallow safely, administration is not feasible and also risks aspiration. Ingestions of caustic substances (acids or alkalis) or petroleum hydrocarbons are contraindications because charcoal does not effectively adsorb these materials, and aspiration can cause serious pulmonary injury. Because each of these situations is a real contraindication, all of the above apply.