Wound decontamination

The following steps are usually effective for decontaminating wounds ... 

The contents of the kit are highly caustic and should not be used near the eyes or mouth or to decontaminate wounds. A training kit that contains only an alcohol and water solution, the M58A1, has been developed to be used in lieu of the M258A1. 

Halazone, W,A/-dichloro-7 -carboxybenzenesulfonamide [80-13-7] is suitable for the decontamination of water, as is also succinchlorimide, /V-ch1orosuccinimide [128-09-6] which is a white crystalline compound having a chlorine odor. Succinchlorimide is strongly bactericidal when compared to hypochlorites, and is less affected by organic matter than halazone. However, it is inferior to hypochlorites as a cysticide (29). Chloroazodin, also known as azochloramide and W,A/-dichloro-azodicarbonamidine [502-98-7] is claimed to be relatively nontoxic to tissue. AppHed to a wound it acts as a mild and slow oxidant (30). 

Decontaminate the casualty ensuring that all nerve agents have been removed. If nerve agents have gotten into the eyes, irrigate the eyes with water or 0.9% saline solution for at least 15 minutes. Irrigate open wounds with water or 0.9% saline solution for at least 10 minutes. However, do not delay treatment if thorough decontamination cannot be... 

Once the casualty has been decontaminated, including the removal of foreign matter from wounds, medical personnel do not need to wear a chemical-protective mask. 

Arsine is highly volatile and there is little risk of direct residual contamination. However, potential persistent decomposition products include arsenic and arsenic oxides. Wash the remains with soap and water. Pay particular attention to areas where agent may get trapped, such as hair, scalp, pubic areas, fingernails, folds of skin, and wounds. If remains are heavily contaminated with residue, then wash and rinse waste should be contained for proper disposal. Once the remains have been thoroughly decontaminated, no further protective action is necessary. Body fluids removed during the embalming process do not pose any additional risks and should be contained and handled according to established procedures. Use standard burial procedures. 

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