Laboratory Studies
Consider the following tests if patient is hemodynamically unstable or has altered mental status or seizures:
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Basic metabolic profile including electrolytes, glucose, BUN, and creatinine
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Arterial blood gas
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Comprehensive drug screen to evaluate for coingestions, including serum acetaminophen level
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Creatine kinase or urine myoglobin to screen for rhabdomyolysis
Consider a pregnancy test for women of childbearing age.
Imaging Studies
Perform chest radiographs if aspiration is suspected.
Other Tests
See the list below:
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ECG to rule out dysrhythmias
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Chemical screening test for alkaloids in plant material provides confirmation of toxicity due to poison or water hemlock. However, a plant specimen (or ingested material) is required, and these tests are not routinely available.
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Hemlock. Photo by Cornell University Poisonous Plants Informational Database