American family physician
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Hydrofluoric acid is widely used in both industrial and household settings. The acid may cause insidious burns that can be very destructive. ⋯ Immediate and copious irrigation, followed by topical, subcutaneous or intra-arterial administration of calcium carbonate, minimizes the extent of injury. In major exposure to hydrofluoric acid, management includes serum electrolyte and electrocardiographic monitoring, as well as aggressive repletion of calcium deficiency.
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Prompt recognition of suicidal intent can prevent suicide in the elderly. Some psychiatric disorders, such as depression, psychoses and organic brain syndromes, can predispose these persons to suicide, as can medical disorders that result in pain, disability or dysfunction. ⋯ Anti-depressant medications with a low anticholinergic and sedative profile are preferred because of age-related physiologic changes. Electroconvulsive therapy is reserved for serious cases.