Clayton T. Cowl, MD, MS, FCCP
CHEST (American College of Chest Physicians), Rochester, MN, USA
From widespread forest fires to train derailments with release of corrosive respiratory irritants to accidental spills of hydrochloric acid and anhydrous ammonia from industries across Canada, the importance of recognizing the potential for mass casualties and individual lung injury from these types of exposures has become greater to specialists focused on respiratory health. This session summarizes the key considerations for rapidly assessing and treating individuals involved in irritant and toxic exposures, and highlights some of the more common types of environmental considerations surrounding exposure to smoke, chemical spills or release of various toxic agents.
Learning Objectives
At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:
- Recognize the potential for mass casualty injuries from environmental releases of commonly used but potentially hazardous products;
- Recall the most prevalent types of toxic spills recorded within Canada over the past decade; and
- Review strategies for early assessment and treatment of individuals with irritant or toxic exposures.
CanMEDS Roles: Communicator , Leader, Medical Expert
