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A 20-year-old college student is brought into the emergency room after a party. He has tenting of the skin on the backs of his hands, is nauseated and vomits, acts seductively toward the nursing staff, and thinks the security guards are out to kill him. He tells you: "The one with the red hair is out to slay me." The emergency medical technician tells you the patient apparently collapsed while dancing at a "rave." What substance has he most likely taken?

A. Cannabis
B. Ketamine
C. Diacetylmorphine
D. Methylenedioxyamphetamine
E. Some form of volatile inhalant

1 Answer

3 votes

Final Answer:

The substance he has most likely taken is Methylenedioxyamphetamine so the correct option is D. Methylenedioxyamphetamine

Step-by-step explanation:

The patient's symptoms, including tenting of the skin, nausea, vomiting, seductive behavior, and paranoid delusions, are indicative of intoxication with a stimulant hallucinogen. The most likely substance is Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA), a hallucinogenic amphetamine derivative commonly found in ecstasy or "Molly."

MDA can cause hyperactivity, altered sensory perception, and hallucinations, leading to the patient's bizarre behavior and distorted perceptions of the security guards.

MDA is known for its stimulating and empathogenic effects, making it a popular choice at rave parties.

The tenting of the skin is a characteristic sign of dehydration and hyperthermia associated with stimulant use. The patient's collapse during dancing further supports the stimulant nature of the substance.

The red hair fixation and paranoia are consistent with hallucinogenic effects of MDA, contributing to the patient's altered perception of the security guards.

Other options can be ruled out based on the specific symptoms described. Cannabis typically does not cause such acute and severe manifestations, and ketamine, diacetylmorphine (heroin), and volatile inhalants do not align with the combination of symptoms observed in this case.

Overall, the patient's clinical presentation strongly suggests MDA intoxication, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and managing stimulant-related emergencies in the emergency room setting.

The substance he has most likely taken is Methylenedioxyamphetamine so the correct option is D. Methylenedioxyamphetamine

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