Intensive Care Management of Organophosphate Poisoned Patient: A Test of Critical Care Services in Nigeria

Abstract

The management of organophosphate poisoning is challenging, more so in the setting of poor critical care facilities. The management requires the administration of atropine, an antidote (oxime) and supportive care often provided in the ICU. We report a 35year old male who presented with a history of ingestion of an organophosphate insecticide and features of cholinergic and central nervous system affectation. The patient was managed with intravenous atropine, pralidoxime, ventilator support and other supportive care. This paper highlights those challenges associated with the management of organophosphate poisoning in our environment.

Keywords

• poisoning; organophosphate; icu; developing countries.