What is discouraged in patients exposed to powdered potentially toxic substances? What are the immediate remedial actions recommended in such cases?
Decontamination with water is discouraged in patients exposed to powdered potentially toxic or harmful substances like heavy metals. Immediate remedial actions should involve the use of specific detergents or solutions rather than water to avoid spreading the substance. Ensuring the use of personal protection equipment is also essential.
Explanation:
Decontamination with water is avoided in patients exposed to certain substances in their powdered form. This is because water can cause a powdered substance to spread, thereby intensifying the contamination. Examples of these substances include certain heavy metals like mercury, silver, copper, and zinc, all of which long have been used for disinfection and preservation, despite their known toxicity and environmental risks. Contaminated personnel are expected to wear a protective coat, face protection, and cut-resistant gloves. Immediately after any contact with skin, the contaminated area should be washed with detergent and warm water. The contaminated waste is usually incinerated or treated with a strong basic solution. Decontamination processes can vary depending on the nature of the substance, but the use of water is often the first step.
In cases of patients exposed to powdered substances, it can be more beneficial to use detergents containing phosphates, or industrial-strength cleaners containing quaternary ammonium compounds. These agents are well equipped to mitigate some of the risks associated with exposure.