Question

Activated charcoal is most effective for GI decontamination when administered within ____ hours:

a) 1-2 hours
b) 3-4 hours
c) 6-8 hours
d) 12-24 hours

Answer 1

Activated charcoal is most effective for GI decontamination if given within 1-2 hours of ingestion of a toxicant, coinciding with the early stages of digestive food retention in the small intestine.

Step-by-step explanation:

Activated charcoal is most effective for GI decontamination when administered within 1-2 hours after ingestion of a toxicant. This timeframe allows for maximum binding of the substance within the digestive system before it can be absorbed into the bloodstream. Considering the retention time of food in the small intestine is approximately four hours, administering activated charcoal within the first 1-2 hours is crucial for it to be effective. In the case of certain substances that delay gastric emptying or form concretions, like aspirin or extended-release medications, this window can be extended slightly.