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Unit of study_

CRIT5017: Introduction to Clinical Toxicology

Clinical toxicology is concerned with the risk assessment and management of drugs, chemicals and venoms in humans. This unit introduces students to common poisonings and envenomations in Australia and provides a framework for the initial resuscitation and risk assessment of the affected patient. Principles of supportive care, decontamination, enhanced elimination and specific antidotes will also be explored.

Code CRIT5017
Academic unit Critical Care
Credit points 6
Prerequisites:
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None
Corequisites:
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None
Prohibitions:
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None

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. Explain the toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics of common poisons; To inform and create a robust risk assessment framework for every poisoned patient; To allow the rational application of appropriate decontamination and enhanced elimination techniques
  • LO2. Explain the impact of specific toxins on physiological systems;To formulate a rational resuscitation plan
  • LO3. Apply evidence-based principles and techniques to the management of common toxins
  • LO4. Apply and adapt resuscitation principles to the specific setting of poisoning
  • LO5. Critique the available literature and identify credible information sources for the management of critically unwell patients
  • LO6. Analyse the use of important antidotes.
  • LO7. Critique the use and indications of mechanical and extracorporeal techniques in toxicology
  • LO8. Demonstrate a holistic and sensitive approach to the poisoned patient, recognising the biopsychosocial aspects of self-harm and suicidal behaviour
  • LO9. Identify safety issues such as child protection and family violence and incorporate these risks into the management and disposition plan
  • LO10. Liaise with associated services, such as mental health and social work, in addition to critical care and single-organ support teams

Unit outlines

Unit outlines will be available 2 weeks before the first day of teaching for the relevant session.