T54.3/T54.2
DESCRIPTION
Alkaline: Toilet bowl cleaners, drain cleaners, oven cleaners.
Acids: Various e.g. domestic descalers.
Depending on the concentration, caustic substances cause necrosis of the gut mucosa and underlying tissue resulting in possible strictures later.
GENERAL MEASURES
No activated charcoal, forced emesis or gastric lavage.
Rinse mouth with copious amounts of cold water.
Make patient nil by mouth and set up IV access.
If persistent vomiting, drooling or any difficulty in swallowing, patient may require endoscopic evaluation within 24-48 hours and possible surgical intervention. (Discuss with a specialist).