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Carbamazepine contraceptive interaction — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardCNS TherapeuticsCarbamazepine contraceptive interactionGPhC CRA

A patient using a fentanyl 50 micrograms/hour patch places an electric heat pad directly over it. They become difficult to rouse with pinpoint pupils and a respiratory rate of 8/min. What is the immediate priority?

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Correct answer: C — Remove the patch and obtain emergency treatment for opioid toxicity

Option C is correct: direct heat can substantially increase transdermal fentanyl delivery, and depressed consciousness, miosis and bradypnoea indicate life-threatening opioid toxicity. Remove the patch and heat source, call emergency services and provide airway support and naloxone according to emergency protocols; prolonged monitoring is required because fentanyl continues to absorb from the skin depot. Option B delays treatment. Option A leaves the cause attached. Option D does not reverse respiratory depression. Option E can disrupt delivery and does not safely terminate exposure.

Reference: Fencino transdermal fentanyl SmPC: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/7515/smpc