AEMCA Practice Exam

What is the danger of exposure to phosgene?

1. Causes immediate skin burns

2. Damages airway and lung tissue

3. Leads to muscle paralysis

4. Results in cardiovascular collapse

The correct answer is: Damages airway and lung tissue

Phosgene is a highly toxic gas that primarily affects the respiratory system. Upon exposure, it can lead to severe damage to the airway and lung tissue. This occurs because phosgene interferes with the ability of the lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide, leading to pulmonary edema—an accumulation of fluid in the lungs. Symptoms of inhalation exposure may not immediately present, often developing several hours later, which can delay medical intervention and increase the severity of lung damage. In contrast, the other choices describe different health effects that are not primarily associated with phosgene exposure. For example, phosgene does not typically cause immediate skin burns, nor does it cause muscle paralysis or result in cardiovascular collapse directly. While exposure to any toxic substance can potentially lead to various systemic complications, phosgene is specifically notorious for its detrimental effects on lung function, making airway and lung tissue damage the most relevant and significant risk upon exposure.