NCJ Number
192406
Date Published
2000
Length
17 pages
Annotation
In this chapter EMS providers are introduced to the concepts of personal protective equipment (PPE), decontamination equipment and solutions, and chemical detection and identification equipment needed to operate safely in a nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) contaminated environment.
Abstract
Chemical agents are known to pose a serious potential threat to EMS providers. This chapter examined how with proper training and equipment providers can operate safely in a chemically contaminated environment. The familiarity and use of protective equipment in a potentially lethal environment reduces the risk to the EMS provider. The chapter begins by introducing EMS providers to the personal protective equipment (PPE) necessary to operate safely in a nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) contaminated environment. In addition to PPE, it is absolute that patients exposed to chemical, biologic, or radiologic agents be decontaminated before entering the evacuation or transport system. Equipment and solutions used in the decontamination process are described. Since most chemical agents cannot be felt, seen, or smelt, the need for specialized detection, identification, and monitoring equipment is essential. With proper training and equipment EMS providers can reduce the risk to themselves and the patients within a contaminated environment. Tables