Treating Chemical and Biological Agent Casualties

Lesson 2: Treating Nerve Agent Poisoning
Section I: Treat Self

2-2. PUT ON YOUR PROTECTIVE MASK

If you suspect that you have been exposed to a nerve agent and you are not wearing your mask, your first action is to stop breathing and put on your protective mask and hood using the procedures given in Lesson 1. Do not administer the nerve agent antidotes before you mask. If you administer the nerve antidotes before you mask, the time used to administer the antidotes could result in your becoming incapacitated to such a degree that you will no longer be able to mask yourself without assistance. The protective mask will protect your mouth, nose, and eyes while you continue to treat yourself and other casualties.