What is the antidote for Lead poisoning?

Appeared in: Punjab CHO - 2021

Explanation

Dimercaprol is a chelating agent specifically used for heavy metal poisoning, including lead.
It works by forming a stable, excretable complex with lead, removing it from the body.
It is particularly indicated in cases of severe lead poisoning, often in conjunction with another chelator, Calcium Disodium Edetate (CaNa₂EDTA).

Option B: Digoxin immune FAB is not used for lead poisoning. It is a specific antibody fragment designed to bind to digoxin molecules.
Option C: Protamine (specifically Protamine Sulfate) is not an antidote for lead poisoning. Its mechanism involves binding to heparin.
Option D: Calcium gluconate is not used for lead poisoning. It provides calcium ions to counteract the effects of magnesium.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Pharmacology: Antidotes for Poisoning as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Knowing the correct antidote for specific poisonings is a critical nursing responsibility in emergency and critical care settings, as rapid intervention can be life-saving.
Nurses must be aware of the specific administration requirements and potential adverse effects of antidotes, such as Dimercaprol's formulation in peanut oil, requiring an allergy check.
What if the patient has a severe peanut allergy? In this case, Dimercaprol would be contraindicated. The nurse should anticipate the use of alternative chelating agents like Succimer (DMSA) or Calcium Disodium Edetate (CaNa₂EDTA) as per the physician's order.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question, which is asking for the specific antidote for 'Lead poisoning'.
This is a factual recall question based on pharmacological knowledge.
Review the options provided: Dimercaprol, Digoxin immune FAB, Protamine, and Calcium gluconate.
Mentally (or on paper), match each option to the substance it counteracts.
Recall that Dimercaprol is a chelating agent for heavy metals.
Eliminate the other options by identifying them as antidotes for Digoxin, Heparin, and Magnesium Sulfate, respectively.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Pharmacology KD Tripathi Essentials 9e Part 3 pp. 260-262, 261-263

E6 Pharmacology Katzung 16e p. 1601-1603

Practise the full Punjab CHO - 2021

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.