NERVE AGENT BASICS
What type of chemical warfare agent blocks the enzyme acetylcholinesterase and can be fatal within minutes?
Nerve agents
What pupil change is commonly seen in nerve agent poisoning?
Pinpoint pupils
What is the name of the autoinjector used to treat nerve agent poisoning?
ATNAA
How many ATNAAs are used for self-aid in mild symptoms?
One ATNAA
What is the primary injection site for ATNAA administration?
Outer thigh
Name one route through which nerve agents can enter the body.
Skin, eyes, or lungs
Name one respiratory-related symptom of mild nerve agent exposure.
Tightness in chest or difficulty breathing
Which drug in the ATNAA dries secretions and opens airways?
Atropine
How many ATNAAs are given during buddy-aid for severe symptoms?
Three ATNAAs
How long must the autoinjector be held in place during injection?
10 seconds
Which nerve agent is odorless and highly persistent as a liquid?
VX
Which symptom separates severe nerve agent poisoning from mild exposure?
Convulsions or unconsciousness
Which ATNAA drug reactivates acetylcholinesterase?
Pralidoxime chloride (2-PAM Cl)
What is the maximum number of ATNAAs that may be given to one casualty?
Three total
What is the correct priority sequence when responding to nerve agent exposure?
Mask → Inject → Decontaminate
Which nerve agent is the most volatile and odorless?
Sarin (GB)
Name four symptoms that indicate mild nerve agent poisoning.
Runny nose
Headache
Drooling
Muscle twitching
Pinpoint pupils
Blurred vision
Nausea or stomach cramps
Which medication is used to control seizures during severe nerve agent poisoning?
CANA (Diazepam)
What must you do first before providing buddy-aid to a nerve agent casualty?
Ensure your own protective mask is on
What critical nerve must be avoided when using the alternate injection site?
The sciatic nerve
Why are nerve agents especially dangerous in a tactical environment?
They act rapidly, are extremely toxic, and can be fatal within minutes without immediate treatment
What life-threatening condition may occur if severe nerve agent poisoning is not treated immediately?
Respiratory failure and death
When is CANA authorized to be administered?
Only during buddy-aid when giving 3 ATNAAs for severe symptoms
Why must you use the casualty’s own autoinjectors during buddy-aid?
You may need your own injectors later if you become exposed
Why must decontamination occur after antidote administration, not before?
Antidotes prevent death first; decontamination can be done once the casualty is stabilized