Generally speaking, an incapacitating agent is any compound which
can interfere with your performance. The agent affects the central
nervous system and produces muscular weakness and abnormal behavior.
It is likely that such agents will be disseminated by smoke-producing
munitions or aerosols, thus making breathing their means of entry
into the body. The protective mask is, therefore, essential.
a. There is no special first aid to relieve the symptoms
of incapacitating agents. Supportive first aid and physical restraint
may be indicated. If the casualty is stuporous or comatose, be
sure that respiration is unobstructed; then turn him on his stomach
with his head to one side (in case vomiting should occur). Complete
cleansing of the skin with soap and water should be done as soon
as possible; or, the M258A1 Skin Decontamination Kit can be used
if washing is impossible. Remove weapons and other potentially
harmful items from the possession of individuals who are suspected
of having these symptoms. Harmful items include cigarettes, matches,
medications, and small items which might be swallowed accidentally.
Delirious persons have been known to attempt to eat items bearing
only a superficial resemblance to food.
b. Anticholinergic drugs (BZ-type) may produce alarmingdryness and coating of the lips and tongue; however, there is
usually no danger of immediate dehydration. Fluids should be given
sparingly, if at all, because of the danger of vomiting and because
of the likelihood of temporary urinary retention due to paralysis
of bladder muscles. An important medical consideration is the
possibility of heatstroke caused by the stoppage of sweating.
If the environmental temperature is above 78� F, and the
situation permits, remove excessive clothing from the casualty
and dampen him to allow evaporative cooling and to prevent dehydration.
If he does not readily improve, apply first aid measures for heatstroke
and seek medical attention.
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