Acute poisoning causes considerable morbidity and mortality. Despite this, it is an often neglected area of training and consequently a cause of much anxiety among medical personnel. Those seeking to acquire a working knowledge in this field are often faced with daunting tomes on toxicology or publications offering little by way of practical guidance and explanation.

This book guides readers through an essential understanding of the more common toxins, be they medications, household or industrial toxins, illicit drugs or venoms. Guidance on the management of toxicity concentrates on the emergency period and offers practical advice that supplements globally accepted life support principles.