In a case of a patient suspected of antidepressant overdose, what is a crucial step in treatment?

Assessing airway and breathing is a crucial step in the treatment of a patient suspected of an antidepressant overdose. This is because overdoses can lead to altered levels of consciousness, respiratory depression, or aspiration risks. Ensuring that the patient's airway is clear and that they are breathing adequately allows for timely intervention and can prevent further complications.

If a patient is experiencing significant respiratory distress or is unconscious, immediate actions can be taken to secure the airway, provide oxygen, or initiate advanced airway management if necessary. This step is essential regardless of the substance ingested, as maintaining a patent airway and ensuring adequate ventilation are the foundations of emergency care.

Other treatments, such as IV fluid therapy, administering charcoal, or transporting to a psychiatric unit, can be important but come after ensuring that the patient is stable, particularly in terms of their airway and breathing. Prioritizing these vital functions is critical in any overdose scenario.