Final answer:
The priority action for a nortriptyline overdose is to seek immediate medical attention where the patient will receive emergency treatments such as gastric lavage and administration of activated charcoal, alongside monitoring of vitals and supportive care.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a patient has overdosed on 50 tablets of nortriptyline, the priority intervention is to seek immediate medical attention, as this situation is potentially life-threatening. The emergency department will initiate the appropriate measures, which may include gastric lavage to remove any undigested medication, administration of activated charcoal to prevent further absorption of the drug from the gastrointestinal tract, and monitoring of vital signs and cardiac rhythm due to the risk of arrhythmias. Treatment may also require supportive care such as mechanical ventilation and the use of intravenous fluids and medications to stabilize the patient's blood pressure and heart function.
In addition to acute management, a psychiatric evaluation will be important to address the underlying cause of the overdose, whether accidental or intentional. Since nortriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant, the overdose can lead to severe cardiovascular and neurological symptoms, and thus rapid response is crucial to mitigate these risks.
Immediate Actions for Nortriptyline Overdose
- Seek emergency medical care
- Gastric lavage and activated charcoal administration
- Monitoring vital signs and cardiac rhythm
- Supportive care and psychiatric evaluation