Which sign is commonly associated with PCP intoxication?

Which sign is commonly associated with PCP intoxication?

• A. Bradypnea
• B. Nystagmus
• C. Constricted pupils
• D. Rash

Answer: (B)

Nystagmus is the sign most closely linked to PCP intoxication. PCP affects central nervous system pathways that control eye movements, so you often see rapid, involuntary eye jerks—horizontal or vertical. This ocular sign helps distinguish PCP from other substances, especially when the patient may also be agitated, combative, or tachycardic. Bradypnea would suggest a depressant effect on respiration (like opioids), not typical for PCP. Constricted pupils are more characteristic of opioid use, not PCP, and a rash isn’t a typical feature of PCP intoxication.

Nystagmus is the sign most closely linked to PCP intoxication. PCP affects central nervous system pathways that control eye movements, so you often see rapid, involuntary eye jerks—horizontal or vertical. This ocular sign helps distinguish PCP from other substances, especially when the patient may also be agitated, combative, or tachycardic.

Bradypnea would suggest a depressant effect on respiration (like opioids), not typical for PCP. Constricted pupils are more characteristic of opioid use, not PCP, and a rash isn’t a typical feature of PCP intoxication.