Which statement best describes the effect of activated charcoal in EMS?

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Multiple Choice

Which statement best describes the effect of activated charcoal in EMS?

Explanation:
Activated charcoal works by adsorption, binding many ingested toxins to its surface so they stay in the GI tract rather than getting into the bloodstream. This binding forms a stable complex that limits systemic absorption, which is why it’s described as adsorbing toxins to reduce GI absorption. It does not neutralize toxins in the bloodstream, nor does it increase absorption. Its usefulness depends on the toxin being able to bind to charcoal and on giving it within a suitable window after ingestion, with airway protection if the patient’s mental status is impaired due to risk of aspiration.

Activated charcoal works by adsorption, binding many ingested toxins to its surface so they stay in the GI tract rather than getting into the bloodstream. This binding forms a stable complex that limits systemic absorption, which is why it’s described as adsorbing toxins to reduce GI absorption. It does not neutralize toxins in the bloodstream, nor does it increase absorption. Its usefulness depends on the toxin being able to bind to charcoal and on giving it within a suitable window after ingestion, with airway protection if the patient’s mental status is impaired due to risk of aspiration.

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