AEMCA Practice Exam

What is the primary treatment for sulfur mustard or lewesite exposure?

1. Administering antivenom

2. Flushing with water and breaking blisters

3. Inhaling oxygen

4. Using activated charcoal

The correct answer is: Flushing with water and breaking blisters

The primary treatment for exposure to sulfur mustard or lewisite involves flushing the contaminated area with water and managing any resulting blisters. Sulfur mustard and lewisite are chemical agents that can cause severe skin lesions, respiratory issues, and systemic toxicity upon exposure. Immediate decontamination is crucial because these substances can remain on the skin and continue to cause harm. Flushing with water helps to remove the chemical agents, thereby reducing the risk of further injury. Breaking blisters is also a part of the treatment protocol, as it can reduce the likelihood of infection by allowing for proper drainage. However, care must be taken to manage wounds properly to prevent secondary complications. Other treatments mentioned, such as administering antivenom, inhaling oxygen, or using activated charcoal, are irrelevant in this context. Antivenom is specifically used for poisoning from venomous animals and does not apply to chemical agents like sulfur mustard. Inhaling oxygen might be beneficial for respiratory distress but does not address the underlying chemical exposure. Activated charcoal is effective for ingested poisons but is not suitable in cases of skin exposure to chemical agents. Hence, the focus on water flushing and blister management is necessary and appropriate for treating sulfur mustard or lewisite exposure.