What role does decontamination play in toxicology?
Decontamination is a vital step in managing toxic exposures. It involves removing or neutralizing the toxin to prevent further absorption. This can include:
- Gastric lavage: Used in some cases to remove ingested poisons from the stomach. - Activated charcoal: Administered orally to bind toxins and reduce their absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. - Dermal decontamination: Washing the skin to remove chemicals that may have been absorbed through contact.
