Treating Chemical and Biological Agent Casualties

Lesson 3: Treating Blood, Choking, and Blister Agent Casualties

3-8. TREAT AN INCAPACITATING AGENT CASUALTY

a. Mask the Casualty. Mask the casualty if he is not already masked and he is not capable of putting on his mask and hood himself.

b. Reassure the Casualty. Have a friendly, but firm, attitude toward the casualty. If the casualty is incoherent or cannot comprehend what is being said, do not try to carry on a conversation.

c. Protect Casualty. Keep the casualty as calm as possible. Remove the casualty from the chemical environment if possible. Restrain the casualty if needed.

d. Decontaminate the Casualty. After the casualty is removed from the chemical environment (protective shelter, and so forth), decontaminate the casualty using soap and water or an M258A1 skin decontamination kit. If possible, have another soldier perform the decontamination procedures (buddy-aid).

e. Cool the Casualty, If Needed. If the casualty's body temperature is above 102°F (39°C) and his mucous membranes are dry, begin immediate cooling procedures. Remove him from direct sunlight, spray him with cool water, and fan him to promote evaporation.

(1) Do not apply ice to the casualty.

 

(2) Do not begin an intravenous infusion or give the casualty anything to drink. Dehydration is not likely and the primary dangers are vomiting and temporary urinary retention.

f. Position the Casualty, If Needed. If the casualty is stuporous or comatose, turn the casualty onto his stomach with his head turned to one side. This will help to prevent aspiration of vomitus should the casualty vomit. Monitor the casualty for respiratory problems.

g. Evacuate the Casualty. Evacuate the casualty to a medical treatment facility. If the casualty's temperature is above 102°F or the casualty must be restrained, evacuate him as rapidly as possible.