Poisoning From Gasses Flashcards
What is the first step in managing poisoning from gases, solvents, smoke, or fumes?
Ensure scene safety
What symptoms should be assessed for carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning?
Headache, nausea, vomiting, chest tightness, shortness of breath, tachycardia, confusion, falling level of consciousness, dysrhythmias, cardiac arrest
At what carboxy-haemoglobin level should oxygen be administered to a patient suspected of CO poisoning?
Greater than 10%
How should oxygen be administered to a patient with suspected CO poisoning?
Via a reservoir mask at 10 litres/minute
When should nebulised bronchodilators be administered?
If clinical signs of bronchospasm are prominent
What backup is required if a patient has significantly abnormal vital signs?
Backup from a Paramedic
What is the recommended action if a patient has a GCS less than 10?
Request backup from a CCP
What should be done if CO poisoning is suspected and the patient is symptomatic?
Transport to an ED by ambulance
What is the usual recommendation for transport to an ED after exposure to solvents or fumes?
Transport is not required unless there are signs of abnormal physiology
What are common symptoms of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning?
Headache, nausea, vomiting, chest tightness, shortness of breath, tachycardia, confusion, falling level of consciousness, dysrhythmias, cardiac arrest
What is a reliable method to measure carboxy-haemoglobin levels?
Using a CO-oximeter
What symptoms are commonly associated with exposure to solvents and/or fumes?
Headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, shortness of breath, irritation of the eyes, nose, mouth or throat
How long do symptoms from solvent or fume exposure usually take to resolve?
1-2 hours
What should be done if a patient exhibits signs of pulmonary oedema after chlorine gas exposure?
Transport to an ED if there are signs of abnormal physiology
What is the primary effect of hydrogen sulphide (H2S) poisoning?
Impairment of oxygen utilisation at a mitochondrial level
What indicates a potential H2S poisoning scenario?
A sulphurous odour, signs warning of danger, taped doors/windows, a container with chemicals
What are initial steps if H2S poisoning is suspected?
Do not enter the enclosed space, request urgent assistance, call on the patient to exit if conscious
What is the most appropriate method of decontamination for a patient with chemical exposure?
A shower of approximately three minutes’ duration
What should be done if a patient is unconscious due to H2S poisoning?
Wait for FENZ or HAZMAT personnel with breathing apparatus
What should be removed from a patient before transport if contaminated with chemicals?
Clothing, leaving underwear on
True or False: Off gassing of dangerous levels of gas from a patient has been documented.
False
What is the role of cyanide antidotes in H2S poisoning?
They may have a role in treatment if immediately available
What should be done in the case of cardiac arrest following H2S poisoning?
Resuscitation should usually commence unless there is a clear reason not to
why is carbon monoxide poising an issue for perfusion
Carbon monoxide has a higher affinity to bind to hemoglobin then 02- blocks 02 thus decreasing circulating 02, decreasing perfusion
