ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on skin decontamination, the timely removal of toxic materials from the surface of exposed skin. Skin decontamination deals primarily with liquid exposure, although off-gassing of chemical warfare agent (CWA) vapor from clothing or materials can be a concern, particularly with sulfur mustard. Sponges afford the dual advantage of physically removing CWAs from skin while providing a means of neutralizing the agent and preventing cross-contamination. Human skin comprises three major layers—epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous fat. Topically applied protectants, as a means of delaying absorption of toxic substances through the skin, have been of interest to the military since World War I. In some cases, excessive hydration may enhance the dermal absorption of toxic materials. Skin decontamination is a time-critical process and so must be performed as soon as practically possible following dermal exposure to CWAs. Indeed, any absorbent material and flushing with water are both effective decontamination strategies.
