#1056 From Dose to Danger: Analgesic Overdose and Emergency Care (8 Credits/hours)

Course Details:
Launch Date: August 5, 2025
Expires: August 31, 2027

Course #1056
8 Credits/Hours

Course Overview

This comprehensive course examines the critical topic of analgesic overdose, focusing on the pharmacology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of overdoses involving common pain medications. Healthcare professionals will gain essential knowledge to recognize, assess, and treat patients presenting with analgesic toxicity, including both opioid and non-opioid analgesics. The course emphasizes evidence-based approaches to overdose management and preventive strategies.

Table of Contents

1. Acetaminophen Overdose: Mechanisms, Clinical Features, and Management
2. Opioid Overdose: Recognition, Naloxone Administration, and Supportive Care
3. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) Overdose: Toxicology and Treatment
4. Salicylate Overdose: Pathophysiology and Emergency Management
5. Mixed Analgesic Overdose: Diagnostic Challenges and Multidrug Management Strategies

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Identify the signs and symptoms of various analgesic overdoses through comprehensive clinical assessment
• Understand the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of different analgesic classes that contribute to toxicity
• Apply appropriate diagnostic protocols including laboratory testing and toxicology screening for suspected overdose cases
• Implement evidence-based treatment protocols specific to each type of analgesic overdose
• Administer antidotes correctly, including N-acetylcysteine for acetaminophen and naloxone for opioid overdoses
• Recognize complications associated with analgesic overdose including hepatotoxicity, respiratory depression, and metabolic derangements
• Develop comprehensive management plans for patients with mixed analgesic overdoses
• Communicate effectively with poison control centers and toxicology consultants
• Implement preventive strategies and patient education to reduce the risk of analgesic overdose
• Apply appropriate follow-up care and psychiatric evaluation protocols for intentional overdose cases