Which action should be performed first if an operator inhales chlorine gas?

Which action should be performed first if an operator inhales chlorine gas?

• A. Immediately remove victim from the contaminated area
• B. Immediately call a physician or paramedic
• C. Immediately begin appropriate treatment
• D. Do nothing because chlorine gas is nontoxic

Answer: (B)

Chlorine gas is a powerful respiratory irritant, and inhalation can lead to rapid airway irritation, coughing, chest tightness, and potentially serious lung injury, with symptoms that can worsen quickly or appear after exposure ends. Because timely medical assessment and treatment are crucial—oxygen administration, airway management, and monitoring for delayed pulmonary edema—calling a physician or paramedic right away ensures the person receives professional evaluation and care as soon as possible. If it’s safe to do so, you can move the person to fresh air, but the priority is securing medical help on the way to ensure appropriate treatment and monitoring. Starting treatment on your own or delaying medical involvement could miss needed interventions.

Chlorine gas is a powerful respiratory irritant, and inhalation can lead to rapid airway irritation, coughing, chest tightness, and potentially serious lung injury, with symptoms that can worsen quickly or appear after exposure ends. Because timely medical assessment and treatment are crucial—oxygen administration, airway management, and monitoring for delayed pulmonary edema—calling a physician or paramedic right away ensures the person receives professional evaluation and care as soon as possible. If it’s safe to do so, you can move the person to fresh air, but the priority is securing medical help on the way to ensure appropriate treatment and monitoring. Starting treatment on your own or delaying medical involvement could miss needed interventions.