injuries and poisoning
Systemic Asphyxiant Chemical Warfare Agents
Treatment of Systemic Asphyxiant Injuries
Ensuring person can breathe Decontamination of skin Antidotes if available 100% oxygen Doctors give immediate attention to the person's airway, breathing, and circulation. Skin can be decontaminated using water with or without soap. Cyanide antidotesare available and include amyl nitrite, sodium nitrite,sodium thiosulfate, andhydroxocobalamin. If the antidotes are not available, doctors give the person 100% oxygen. Unprotected mouth-to-mouth resuscitation may expose the rescuer to cyanide in the person's breath. People exposed to hydrogen sulfide are usually given 100% oxygen. Glucose and bicarbonate given by vein (IV) may be helpful, but there is no specific antidote. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy of the Department of Army, Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government. 