Oregon Pesticide Practice Test

What is the first thing you should do to help a victim of inhalation exposure?

1. Call for help

2. Get the victim to fresh air

3. Administer oxygen

4. Give water to drink

The correct answer is: Get the victim to fresh air

Getting the victim to fresh air is the most critical initial step when responding to inhalation exposure. This action helps to minimize further exposure to the harmful substance in the air and can prevent the victim's condition from worsening. Fresh air reduces the concentration of the toxin in the environment, allowing the lungs and body to begin recovering. It is essential to act promptly since respiratory irritation or poisoning can escalate quickly. Although calling for help and administering oxygen might be necessary steps later on, they are secondary to removing the individual from the immediate source of exposure. Giving water to drink is not advisable in cases of inhalation exposure as it does not address the primary issue of respiratory distress or toxicity.