Your patient has ingested cyanide in a suicide attempt. Which of the following is the primary threat to life you should anticipate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cyanide binds to cytochrome oxidase in the electron transport chain of mitochondria, preventing the utilization of oxygen at the cellular level. This results in cellular asphyxia, which can quickly lead to metabolic acidosis, neurological symptoms, respiratory failure, and death. Hypotension, pulmonary edema, and liver failure may be secondary effects of cyanide toxicity, but the primary threat is cellular asphyxia.

Your Patient Has Ingested Cyanide in a Suicide Attempt