Page 145 - PJ MED OPS Handbook 8th Ed
P. 145
Smoke Inhalation
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS:
1. Consider possible carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and need for hyperbaric oxygen in all
significant cases of smoke inhalation.
2. Normal oxygen saturation by pulse oximetry DOES NOT rule out CO poisoning.
3. Burns to the upper airway may not be immediately obvious. Strong consideration should
be given to early airway intervention if upper airway burns are suspected.
Signs and Symptoms:
1. History of smoke exposure
2. Burns-Coughing-Respiratory distress (may be delayed in onset)
Management:
1. Administer oxygen.
2. Constant monitoring for airway and respiratory status.
3. Intubate for stridor or respiratory distress, use surgical airway if laryngeal edema is seen with the
laryngoscope or 2 failed attempts.
4. Albuterol (Ventolin) by metered dose inhaler 2–4 puffs q4–6hr.
5. Limit patient exertion if possible.
DISPOSITION:
1. Urgent evacuation for respiratory distress, suspected inhalation burns.
2. Priority evacuation if not in distress but significant inhalation suspected.
Chapter 8. Tactical Medical Emergency Protocols (TMEPs) n 143
