Airway and breathing

Do not routinely administer oxygen for mild to moderate hypoxia due to paraquat poisoning because it worsens oxidative stress and increases lethality in animal models. Oxygen should only be administered if arterial oxygen saturation falls below 90%.

Following paraquat poisoning, intubate and ventilate patients with local caustic injury, hypoxia or respiratory failure, or patients who have an altered conscious state that compromises the airway or breathing. Early intubation is indicated due to the risk of upper airway swelling associated with caustic injury.

For management of suspected aspiration pneumonitis, see here.