DPT 8.0
Decontamination
•Decon of casualties arriving at the hospital
–Already decontaminated
–Not decontaminated
•Decon of healthcare providers
–Decon Team Members
–Treating personnel
DECONTAMINATION

Victims of an NBC terrorist incident who have been fully decontaminated at the scene (clothing removal and showering) do not require additional decon at the hospital.  These patients can be brought directly into the hospital for further evaluation and treatment.  Individuals who only had their clothing removed at the scene, were exposed to an aerosol or vapor, and their symptoms are minimal or improving, may also be brought directly into the hospital without the need for further decontamination.  If these individuals display moderate to serious signs and symptoms, had a liquid exposure, or were in close proximity to the point of release, full decontamination by personnel dressed in appropriate PPE should be performed.

Victims arriving at the hospital with an unclear exposure history who are symptomatic from an NBC agent (or hazardous materials) should be fully decontaminated with soap and water before entering treatment areas.  Patients with a pure vapor exposure do not require additional decontamination beyond clothing removal.  Victims in extremis require rapid decontamination which includes quickly removing the patient’s clothing (using scissors) and flushing the skin with copious amounts of water.  Under certain circumstances (i.e., nerve agent exposure) antidote administration may need to be provided simultaneously, but those providing treatment must wear appropriate PPE.