North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

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Which symptom is associated with organophosphate poisoning?

Increased heart rate
SLUDGE symptoms
Muscle stiffness
Dry mouth

The correct answer is: SLUDGE symptoms

Organophosphate poisoning is characterized by a specific set of symptoms due to its mechanism of action as an inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase. This inhibition leads to an accumulation of acetylcholine at the synapses, resulting in overstimulation of cholinergic receptors. The acronym "SLUDGE" effectively summarizes the typical symptoms associated with this type of poisoning. SLUDGE stands for Salivation, Lacrimation, Urination, Diarrhea, Gastrointestinal distress, and Emesis (vomiting). The manifestation of these symptoms reflects the excessive activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is primarily responsible for rest-and-digest functions. Therefore, identifying SLUDGE symptoms provides critical insights into diagnosing and managing organophosphate poisoning. While increased heart rate and dry mouth can occur in various scenarios, they are not direct indicators of organophosphate exposure. Muscle stiffness is more indicative of other conditions, such as neuroleptic malignant syndrome or certain toxin exposures, but does not align with the SLUDGE presentation seen in organophosphate poisoning. Recognizing SLUDGE symptoms is crucial for timely and appropriate treatment, as these signs are specifically associated with this type of poisoning.