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Pregnant trauma triage — DipIMC MCQ

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HardPaediatric and Obstetric EmergenciesPregnant trauma triageDipIMC

Several ambulant people arrive after possible chemical contamination. They have visible powder on clothing but no burning, skin irritation or respiratory symptoms. What is the default immediate decontamination approach?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Disrobe, then blot and wipe exposed surfaces using absorbent material

The best answer is “Disrobe, then blot and wipe exposed surfaces using absorbent material”. Current NHS England guidance makes rapid disrobing and dry decontamination the default for suspected chemical contamination when there are no caustic symptoms and the material is not known to be biological or radiological. Blot and wipe with fresh absorbent material while containing waste. Caustic exposure, burning or certain agents prompt wet decontamination; neither identification nor forensic preservation should delay lifesaving decontamination.

Reference: NHS England, Management of HazMat or CBRN self-presenters: https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/the-management-of-self-presenters-from-incidents-involving-hazardous-materials-or-chemical-biological-radiological-nuclear-cbrn-substances/