Observation and patient disposition after TCA poisoning

Admit symptomatic patients with tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) poisoning for observation. Most severe toxicity due to TCAs occurs in the first 6 hours after ingestion. Admit patients with severe TCA poisoning to an intensive care unit.

Discharge patients if they remain asymptomatic for at least 6 hours after ingestion.

Sedative drugs can continue to cause significant cognitive impairment for several days following exposure. Advise patients not to drive or operate machinery for at least 3 days after discharge.