Webinar: Best Practices in the Detection and Monitoring of Pesticide Exposure

Last updated on September 10th, 2024 at 10:19 am

Summary: Farmers and agricultural workers are routinely exposed to a wide variety of chemicals. Toxicity Category I and II organophosphates (OPs) and N-methyl carbamates are cholinesterase-inhibiting insecticides commonly used in agriculture to kill insects or prevent them from damaging or destroying crops. Over-exposure to these chemicals results in the inhibition of the enzyme cholinesterase (ChE) which is utilized in the body’s conducting tissue, such as nerve and muscle motor sensory fibers. Acute toxic effects can include confusion, headache, and even loss of consciousness. Severe inhibition of ChE in the body can result in muscle paralysis, respiratory failure, seizures, coma, and death. Currently, there is no practice standard or national medical surveillance program for cholinesterase monitoring.

Purpose: This webinar will review cholinesterase testing and monitoring protocols based on programs from both California and Washington. Presenters will discuss ChE and its function in the body, routes of exposure, who is at risk, signs and symptoms, treatments, and prevention of exposure. Most importantly, presenters will share an established and recently updated protocol algorithm to guide your medical monitoring program. This protocol is designed to create awareness among your workers, set standards based on acceptable safe practices, and reduce incidents in the workplace.

Outcomes: At the end of this webinar, participants will be able to …

1. Self-report an increased understanding of the health risks of cholinesterase (ChE)-inhibiting pesticide exposure and need for regular monitoring.
2. Self-report an increased understanding of the use of a protocol and the ChE monitoring algorithm

Intended Audience: Occupational safety managers, emergency service providers, doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and educators whose practice will be enhanced with the most current information on cholinesterase exposure and management

Continuing Education: This activity has been submitted to the Midwest Multistate Division for approval to award contact hours. The Midwest Multistate Division is accredited as an approver of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.

Watch the Recording Here