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EMS providers would be prudent to listen to the patient"s lung sounds and note any abnormalities. This may be difficult at times if the subject is having a coughing spasm. These patients maybe be agitated and complain that they are having trouble breathing, shortness of breath or unable to take a full breath without coughing. At this point, supplemental oxygen, if tolerated, and palliative care should be provided.
Patients that have been sprayed/exposed to OC will contain the irritant on their shirt or outer clothing that will off gas after the exposure and continue to exacerbate the situation. A remedy to that problem is to have the subject remove the clothing that is contaminated and either dispose of it or seal it in two plastic bags and clearly mark it as clothing contaminated with OC. |