potassium hydroxide poisoning


potassium hydroxide poisoning

Poisoning caused by potassium hydroxide, characterized by nausea, soapy taste, and burning pain in the mouth; bloody, slimy vomitus; abdominal cramping; bloody purging and prostration.

CAUTION!

Vomiting should not be induced.

Patient care

The patient requires hospitalization, morphine for pain, and, often, treatment for shock. If the patient's airway has been burned, topical care is provided; tracheostomy may be required. Corticosterioids and antibiotics may be given.

See also: poisoning