What is the first step in the treatment of bufo toxin ingestion?

Prepare for the Hawaii Veterinary State Licensing Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Get prepared for your examination!

The first step in the treatment of bufo toxin ingestion is to flush the mouth. This is crucial as bufo toads (also known as cane toads) produce a toxin called bufotenin that can lead to severe cardiovascular and neurological issues when ingested. Flushing the mouth helps to remove any remaining toxin from the oral cavity, reducing the amount absorbed into the bloodstream.

Immediate intervention to eliminate the toxin is necessary to prevent further systemic effects. Subsequent treatments, such as monitoring for seizures or providing supplemental oxygen, are important, but those steps follow the initial action of flushing the mouth to mitigate the exposure to the toxin.

Administering Atropine, while it may help with certain symptoms later on, is not the first step because it's essential to address the immediate risk of toxin absorption first. Similarly, monitoring for seizures and providing supplemental oxygen are supportive measures that come into play after ensuring the removal of the toxin from the mouth, thereby making mouth flushing the correct initial response.

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