Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

What are the contraindications for activated charcoal?

1. Joint stiffness

2. Swallowing acids or alkalis

3. High fever

4. Skin rash

The correct answer is: Swallowing acids or alkalis

Activated charcoal is a medication that is typically used for treating poisoning or overdose. It works by binding to the toxic substances in the stomach and preventing them from being absorbed into the body. While it can be a life-saving treatment, there are certain situations where activated charcoal should not be used, or only used under close supervision. This is known as a contraindication. Option A, joint stiffness, does not relate to activated charcoal use and is not a contraindication for this medication. Option C, high fever, may indicate an underlying infection or illness, which could potentially worsen with activated charcoal use. However, it is not a direct contraindication. Option D, skin rash, may be a side effect of activated charcoal use, but it is not a contraindication. It may require further evaluation, but it does not automatically rule out the use of activated charcoal. Option B, swallowing acids or alkalis, is the correct answer. This is because activated charcoal can interfere with the absorption of these substances, which can cause further harm to the body. In these cases, other treatments may be necessary and activated charcoal should not be used without medical supervision.