Organophosphates Flashcards
Organophosphates are commonly used as ___ and ___ agents.
Pesticides; nerve.
Found in farming insecticides and chemical warfare agents like sarin and VX.
What enzyme do organophosphates inhibit?
Acetylcholinesterase (AChE).
Leads to excess acetylcholine and overstimulation of the nervous system.
What are two types of organophosphates?
Pesticides and nerve agents.
Examples include malathion (pesticide) and VX (nerve agent).
Name four routes of organophosphate exposure.
- Inhalation
- Dermal contact
- Ingestion
- Ocular contact
Inhalation and dermal exposure are most common in pesticide and nerve agent incidents.
Name two mnemonics used to identify symptoms of organophosphate poisoning.
- SLUDGE-M
- DUMBELS
Symptoms include salivation, lacrimation, urination, defecation, emesis, and miosis.
Which mnemonic includes bronchorrhea and bronchospasm?
DUMBELS.
These are critical signs leading to respiratory failure.
What PPE level is required when responding to organophosphate incidents?
Level B or A with SCBA.
Protects against vapors and liquid contamination.
What is the primary atmospheric hazard when handling organophosphates?
Toxicity in VOCs from liquid or vaporized organophosphates.
May also include oxygen displacement and fire risks.
How does the MultiRAE assist in detecting organophosphates?
Detects VOCs and oxygen levels.
It cannot directly detect organophosphates but helps identify atmospheric hazards.
Which sensor on the MultiRAE detects volatile organic compounds?
PID sensor.
Indicates high VOC levels but does not identify specific compounds.
What placard is associated with organophosphates under DOT regulations?
Class 6.1 (Poison).
Look for skull and crossbones and UN3018 for pesticides.
What color changes indicate nerve agents on M8 paper?
Yellow (G-series agents) or dark green (VX).
M8 paper is specific for liquids, not vapors.
What does M9 paper detect?
Liquid contamination of nerve agents.
Turns red or pink upon contact but does not identify the agent type.
What is a key limitation of Raman spectroscopy?
Fluorescence interference with certain samples.
Effective for identifying chemical structures in non-fluorescent materials.
What technology does the MX908 use to detect organophosphates?
High-sensitivity mass spectrometry.
Detects nerve agents and pesticides in trace amounts.
What type of paper detects fluorine-based compounds in some nerve agents?
Fluoride (F) paper.
Useful for agents like sarin or VX.
True or False: Potassium iodide (KI) paper can detect organophosphates.
False.
KI paper detects nitrates and oxidizers, not organophosphates.
What initial atropine dose is given for organophosphate poisoning?
2-4 mg IV/IO every 3-5minutes.
Titrate until secretions dry
What medication reactivates acetylcholinesterase in organophosphate poisoning?
Pralidoxime (2-PAM).
What is the function of diazepam or midazolam in organophosphate poisoning?
Controls seizures caused by severe poisoning.
Administer as needed for status epilepticus.
What should you do first in a hazmat scenario involving organophosphates?
Ensure scene safety and don appropriate PPE.
Begin decontamination and establish zones (hot, warm, cold).
What is the first step in decontaminating a patient exposed to organophosphates?
Remove clothing and wash skin with soap and water.
Decontaminate eyes with saline for at least 15 minutes if exposed.
What are two key decontamination tools for detecting nerve agents on surfaces?
- M8 paper
- M9 paper
Both are effective for liquids but not vapors.
Which evacuation guide provides downwind evacuation distances for organophosphate spills?
Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG).
CHEMTREC can also assist with incident management.
Name two nerve agents classified as organophosphates.
- Sarin (GB)
- VX
Both are highly toxic and lethal in small doses.
What type of signal words on pesticide labels indicate organophosphates?
- Danger
- Warning
- Caution
Indicates level of toxicity.
How does pH paper respond to organophosphates?
Generally no reaction unless part of a mixed solution.
pH changes may indicate acidic or basic contaminants.
What DOT placard is used for transporting organophosphates?
Class 6.1 (Poison)
Look for a skull and crossbones symbol and UN numbers like 3018 or 2783.
What odor is commonly associated with organophosphates?
A garlic or sulfur-like smell
Not all organophosphates emit a detectable odor.
Which signal words on a pesticide label suggest organophosphates?
Danger, Warning, or Caution
Indicates the level of acute toxicity.
What type of containers commonly store organophosphates?
Bulk drums, barrels, or spray canisters
Labels should include chemical names and hazard warnings.
How can organophosphates be identified on arrival at a scene?
Look for pesticide containers, placards, or strong odors
Also pts symptoms
Victim symptoms and environmental clues are also key indicators.
What physical symptoms in victims might indicate organophosphate exposure?
SLUDGE-M symptoms such as salivation, miosis (pupil constriction), and vomiting
Rapid onset suggests severe exposure.
Are organophosphates typically found as liquids, powders, or gases?
Most are liquids or powders
They can volatilize into vapors under heat or during application.
Are organophosphate vapors heavier or lighter than air?
Heavier than air
Vapors tend to settle in low-lying areas.
Are organophosphates soluble in water?
Yes, many are water-soluble to some extent
Contaminated water sources pose significant exposure risks.
Are organophosphates heavier or lighter than water in liquid form?
Heavier than water
Liquids may sink in aqueous environments, leading to persistent contamination.
What is the typical physical state of organophosphates at room temperature?
Liquid or powder
Specific compounds vary, but most are applied as sprays or mixed solutions.
What environmental hazard is posed by organophosphates?
Contamination of soil and water
Persistent residues can harm wildlife and aquatic ecosystems.
Organophosphate
Mild symptoms
Administer?
1 duodote
If symptoms persist administer 2 additional
Organophosphate
Severe symptoms administer?
3 duodote kits
*no more than 3 allowed
In organophosphate OD
for seizures give?
Midazolam 2-5mg iv/io/im
May repeat doses up to 10mg
*use capnography and monitor for airway assistance
SLUDGEM
• S – Salivation
• L – Lacrimation (tearing)
• U – Urination
• D – Defecation
• G – Gastrointestinal distress (cramps)
• E – Emesis (vomiting)
• M – Miosis (pupil constriction) / Muscle fasciculations
DUMBELS
D – Defecation/Diarrhea
• U – Urination
• M – Miosis (pupil constriction)
• B – Bradycardia / Bronchorrhea / Bronchospasm
• E – Emesis
• L – Lacrimation
• S – Salivation / Sweating
