What are the Methods of Gastrointestinal Decontamination?
Several methods are utilized for gastrointestinal decontamination:
Activated Charcoal: This is the most commonly used method. Activated charcoal adsorbs many toxicants, preventing their absorption. It is most effective when administered within one hour of ingestion. Gastric Lavage: Also known as stomach pumping, it involves the insertion of a tube into the stomach to wash out its contents. This method is generally reserved for life-threatening ingestions within one hour. Cathartics: These are substances that accelerate defecation. However, they are rarely used alone and often administered with activated charcoal. Whole Bowel Irrigation: This involves flushing the gastrointestinal tract with large volumes of polyethylene glycol solution to cleanse it of toxins. It is particularly useful for substances not well adsorbed by activated charcoal.
