A patient arrives in the emergency department complaining of dizziness, lightheadedness, and a pulsating headache. Further assessment reveals a blood pressure of 82/60 mm Hg and palpitations. The patient's friends tell the nurse that they were experimenting with "poppers." The nurse will expect to administer which medication?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

These findings are consistent with volatile nitrate overdose, as evidenced by the venous dilation. The primary toxicity is methemoglobinemia, which can be treated with methylene blue and supplemental oxygen. Diazepam would not be used for patients experiencing volatile nitrate overdose, but it may be used in patients who have overdosed on hallucinogens. Haloperidol would be used in patients who have overdosed on amphetamines. Naloxone would be used to treat an opioid overdose.

A Patient Arrives in the Emergency Department Complaining of Dizziness