Inhaled Poisons

Suspected toxic gas incident action

Call for specialized resources such as the hazardous materials (hazmat) team.

Approaching a contaminated patient requirement

Never approach unless you have specialized hazmat training and are using the appropriate PPE.

Protection from poisonous fumes

It will be necessary to use a self-contained breathing apparatus.

Decontamination for toxic environment patients

Patients may need to be decontaminated by the hazmat team after they are removed.

Handling a contaminated patient's clothing

The patient’s clothing should be removed because it may contain trapped gases that can be released.

Common signs of inhaled poisoning

Burning eyes, sore throat, cough, chest pain, hoarseness, and wheezing.

Other signs of inhaled poisoning

Respiratory distress, dizziness, confusion, and headache.

Severe signs of inhaled poisoning

Stridor in severe cases, seizures, and altered mental status

Primary treatment for most inhaled toxins

Removing the patient from the exposure and applying oxygen.

Progressive lung damage from inhaled agents

Can occur even after removal from exposure and may not be evident for several hours.

Timeframe for restoring lung function after severe inhalation

It may take 2 or 3 days or more of intensive care.

Transport requirement for inhaled poison patients

All patients who have inhaled poison require prompt transport to an emergency department.

Respiratory support for inhaled poison patients

Be prepared to use supplemental oxygen via a nonrebreathing mask and/or ventilatory support with a bag-mask device.

Pulse oximetry reliability with inhaled poisons

Readings may be inaccurate.

Precaution for inhaled poison patients regarding vomiting

Have a suction unit available in case the patient vomits.

Common suicide method involving inhaled poison

Sitting inside a vehicle with the engine running in an enclosed garage