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Potential Killers in the Cabinet: Toxicology of Common OTC Medications

From the 2022 Joint Annual Meeting (recorded 6/29/2022)
Presented by Christopher Swartz, PhD, MLS(ASCP)CM

This presentation will summarize toxicology and laboratory testing associated with overdoses from common over-the-counter (OTC) medications found around the home. Medications including aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), acetaminophen, and others will be examined accordingly. Relevant case studies demonstrating the general utility of the clinical laboratory in the diagnosis and treatment of patients who overdose from these medications will also be presented.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
At the conclusion of this presentation, participants will be able to:

  • Identify potentially toxic OTC medications found at home.
  • Describe the toxicology associated with common over-the-counter medications.
  • Summarize pertinent laboratory testing and results for patients with overdoses caused by common OTC medications.

CE ACCREDITATION
ASCLS is approved as a provider of continuing education programs in the clinical laboratory sciences by the ASCLS P.A.C.E. ® Program. One (1) P.A.C.E. ® contact hour and one (1) Florida credit hour in the area of C/U (Chemistry/UA) will be awarded to participants. ASCLS P.A.C.E.® is accepted by the ASCP/ASCLS/AGT Board of Certification and all states, including Florida and California, as an approved provider of continuing education for recertification and licensure. ASCLS is an approved provider with CE Broker for Florida licensees.


LEVEL OF INSTRUCTION
This Basic-level program is appropriate for laboratory professionals working in clinical, public health and academic settings.