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- First Aid for White Phosphorus from the CDC
- Further info: http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/ershdb/EmergencyResponseCard_29750025.html
- GENERAL INFORMATION: Initial treatment is primarily supportive. In cases of skin or eye exposure, it includes the immediate removal of burning particles of white phosphorus from the patient/victim's eyes or skin. If skin or eyes are contaminated with white phosphorus, cover them with cool wet cloths to avoid re-ignition.
- ANTIDOTE: There is no antidote for white phosphorus toxicity.
- EYE:
- Immediately remove the patient/victim from the source of exposure.
- Immediately wash eyes with large amounts of cool water for at least 15 minutes.
- Keep exposed eyes covered with wet compresses to prevent white phosphorus particles from re-igniting.
- Avoid application of any lipid- or oil-based ointments, which may increase the absorption of white phosphorus.
- Consider application of an eye cage to prevent direct pressure being applied to the eyeball.
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- INGESTION:
- Immediately remove the patient/victim from the source of exposure.
- Ensure that the patient/victim has an unobstructed airway.
- Do not induce vomiting (emesis).
- Monitor heart function and evaluate for low blood pressure (hypotension), abnormal heart rhythms (dysrhythmias), and reduced respiratory function (respiratory depression).
- Evaluate for low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), electrolyte disturbances, and low oxygen levels (hypoxia).
- If evidence of shock or low blood pressure (hypotension) is observed, begin intravenous (IV) fluid administration.
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- INHALATION:
- Immediately remove the patient/victim from the source of exposure.
- Evaluate respiratory function and pulse.
- Ensure that the patient/victim has an unobstructed airway.
- If shortness of breath occurs or breathing is difficult (dyspnea), administer oxygen.
- Assist ventilation as required. Always use a barrier or bag-valve-mask device.
- If breathing has ceased (apnea), provide artificial respiration.
- Monitor for respiratory compromise, respiratory distress, and accumulation of fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema).
- Monitor the patient/victim for signs of whole-body (systemic) effects and administer symptomatic treatment as necessary.
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- SKIN:
- Immediately remove the patient/victim from the source of exposure.
- See the Decontamination section for patient/victim decontamination procedures.
- Immerse areas of affected skin in cold water or cover them with wet dressings at all times.
- Vigorous irrigation with cold water is the best way to remove white phosphorous embedded in the skin.
- Remove visible particles of white phosphorus while washing with large amounts of cold water or while the area is submerged in cold water.
- The use of cold water is critical, but care should also be taken to guard the patient/victim against hypothermia.
- Immediately place any particles of white phosphorus that are removed into a container of cold water to reduce risk to medical personnel and others.
- Avoid application of any lipid- or oil-based ointments, which may increase the absorption of white phosphorus.
- Monitor the patient/victim for signs of whole-body (systemic) effects.
- If signs of whole-body (systemic) poisoning appear, see the Ingestion section for treatment recommendations.
- Seek medical attention immediately.
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