Decontamination Procedures for Patients Exposed to CBRNE Agents

What procedures should be used when decontaminating a patient exposed to a CBRNE agent?

a) Use hot water for decontamination
b) Use soap and water for decontamination
c) Rub the skin vigorously during decontamination
d) Allow contaminated clothing to remain on the patient

Answer:

In decontaminating a patient exposed to a CBRNE agent, it's important to use warm water and detergent, avoid vigorous rubbing, and immediately remove contaminated clothing.

When decontaminating a patient that has been exposed to a CBRNE agent, certain procedures should be utilized. In contrast to the options presented, the best approach would be to use warm water and a mild detergent for decontamination rather than hot water, as hot water can cause harm to the skin. The use of detergent is beneficial as it aids in the removal of the contaminant.

The process should not involve vigorous rubbing to the skin as this can lead to abrasion and potential further contamination of the individual. Another important aspect of the process involves the immediate removal of any contaminated clothing. After removal, the skin should then be washed with warm water and detergent without scrubbing.

The process of decontamination can be described as degerming, an action aimed at reducing the risk of transmission of pathogenic microbes. In addition to this, health-care workers must ensure thorough handwashing routines, washing hands between patient contact, after glove removal, and after contact with bodily fluids.

The CDC recommends five-step handwashing for the general public, while surgical scrubbing is more involved, aiming at reducing the presence of microbes on the skin to prevent their introduction into a patient’s surgical wounds.