Symptoms and Antidotal Treatment of Nitrite Poisoning

The symptoms of nitrite poisoning include initial dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, difficulty breathing, and fatigue. As the poisoning worsens, patients may develop severe clinical manifestations such as seizures, pulmonary edema, cyanosis of the lips and nail beds, arrhythmias, circulatory failure, and coma, which can ultimately lead to death. After nitrite poisoning, induced vomiting and gastric lavage should be performed, and these procedures must be carried out in a formal medical facility. The specific steps for gastric lavage are as follows:

1. Position the patient supine with the head turned sideways toward the edge of the bed; disinfect the area and lay down sterile drapes.

2. The physician lubricates a gastric tube with a specialized lubricant and then inserts the tube through the patient's mouth into the stomach.

3. Raise the funnel portion of the gastric lavage device to a height 30–40 cm above the lips, and slowly pour lavage fluid into the funnel in portions.

4. Just before completing the infusion into the funnel, lower the funnel below stomach level and invert it. By utilizing siphon action, the liquid from the stomach can be drained out. If drainage is inadequate, repeatedly squeeze the rubber bulb manually to assist in evacuation until the effluent becomes clear, similar in color and clarity to the lavage fluid, and free of odor.

5. After gastric lavage, remove the gastric tube and assist the patient with rinsing the mouth and washing the face.

6. Finally, dispose of the waste material and document the resuscitation process.

Nitrite poisoning is a serious condition that should not be overlooked. Therefore, when the above symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek prompt medical attention at a qualified hospital and receive appropriate treatment based on the individual situation.