Starting in April 2025, a new care pathway is being introduced with the aim of improving treatment and transport options for patients with potential acetaminophen (Tylenol@) poisoning in rural and remote Northern Ontario healthcare settings.
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is an effective antidote for acetaminophen toxicity and can be administered orally or intravenously (IV). Oral NAC is equally effective for most patients and may allow for simpler transport options.
Currently, patients receiving IV NAC require transport by advanced care paramedics due to the IV infusion. Eligible patients treated with oral NAC can be transported by primary care paramedic teams, potentially reducing transport times.
Under this new pathway, patients meeting eligibility criteria can start oral NAC treatment at local nursing stations. Upon arrival at the receiving hospital, they can be transitioned to IV NAC until they are medically cleared.
This is a joint initiative of Ornge and the Ontario Poison Centre with support from the local health authority.
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