Predictors and Outcomes of Airway Management in Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department With Overdose and Decreased Consciousness: A Scoping Review.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To explore evidence relating to the airway management (ranging from observation to intubation) of patients presenting to the emergency department with drug overdose and decreased consciousness.

Introduction

Recreational and prescription drug overdoses are a common reason for patients to present to the emergency department. Patients often have a reduced level of consciousness due to the effects of the drugs involved. There are no evidence-based guidelines identifying which patients can be safely observed, compared with those requiring advanced airway management such as intubation.

Inclusion criteria

Adult patients presenting to the emergency department with drug overdose (recreational drugs, e.g., gamma-hydroxybutyrate and alcohol, and prescription drugs, e.g

SUBMITTER: Pellatt RAF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12515096 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature