Blister Agents

Overview

4.9 out of 5 (13 Reviews)

Credits

1.50

Post Assessment Questions

9

Start Date

1 Sep 2023

Last Review Date

30 Apr 2024

Expiration Date

31 Aug 2026

Estimated Time To Finish

90 Minutes


 
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Activity Description

Blister agents, such as sulfur mustard (dichlorethylsulphide) and nitrogen mustard, have been utilized in warfare since antiquity, particularly during the First and Second World Wars. Recognized by their distinct odor reminiscent of onions, horseradish, or garlic, these agents induce blistering of the skin and mucous membranes upon exposure. The resultant burns are not only excruciating but also disfiguring, with potential complications including delayed wound healing, scarring, and increased susceptibility to secondary infections. Eye contact with these agents can lead to conjunctivitis, corneal damage, and blindness. Furthermore, respiratory complications ranging from inflammation and coughing to bronchitis, pneumonia, and respiratory failure can manifest, particularly with prolonged or high-dose exposure. In light of these hazards, treatment primarily involves supportive measures and necessitates specialized care at burn centers for optimal wound management and, if necessary, skin grafting. 

The course explores evidence-based treatment modalities and supportive measures tailored to address the unique needs of patients affected by blister agents. Clinicians learn to implement a multifaceted approach to care, encompassing wound management techniques, ocular treatments, respiratory support strategies, and pain management protocols. Additionally, they are trained to navigate the ethical and logistical challenges associated with caring for patients exposed to chemical warfare agents, including considerations for decontamination procedures, infection control measures, and long-term follow-up care. This activity also underscores the essential role of interdisciplinary collaboration in delivering comprehensive care to individuals afflicted by sulfur mustard-induced toxicity. By bringing together a diverse team of healthcare professionals, including dermatologists, ophthalmologists, pulmonologists, nurses, pharmacists, and social workers, comprehensive care can be delivered that addresses patients' multifaceted needs. 


UAN: JA4008338-0000-23-093-H01-P

Target Audience

This activity has been designed to meet the educational needs of physicians, physician associates, nurses, pharmacists, and nurse practitioners.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this activity, the learner will be better able to:

  • Identify characteristic symptoms and clinical signs associated with sulfur mustard exposure, such as skin blistering, ocular irritation, and respiratory distress, to facilitate timely recognition and diagnosis in affected individuals.

  • Differentiate between various types of chemical exposures and their specific effects on the body, distinguishing sulfur mustard-induced toxicity from other chemical agents to guide appropriate treatment interventions.

  • Implement evidence-based treatment protocols for managing sulfur mustard-induced toxicity, including wound care techniques, ocular treatments, respiratory support strategies, and pharmacological interventions, to optimize patient outcomes and alleviate symptoms effectively.

  • Collaborate with an interprofessional healthcare team to develop comprehensive care plans tailored to the unique needs of each patient, integrating input from specialists and allied health professionals to optimize treatment efficacy and promote holistic patient-centered care.

Pharmacy Activity Type:
Disease/Drug Therapy Related


Disclosures

StatPearls, LLC requires everyone who influences the content of an educational activity to disclose relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies that have occurred within the past 24 months. Ineligible companies are organizations whose primary business is producing, marketing, selling, re-selling, or distributing healthcare products used by or on patients. All relevant conflict(s) of interest have been mitigated. Hover over contributor names for financial disclosures. Others involved in planning this educational activity have no relevant financial relationships to disclose.

Commercial Support: This activity has received NO commercial support.

Continuing Education Accreditation Information

In support of improving patient care, StatPearls, LLC is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

 

Pharmacists: StatPearls, LLC designates this activity for a maximum of 1.50 ACPE credit(s). (UAN: JA4008338-0000-23-093-H01-P ). Pharmacists should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Please consult your professional licensing board for information on the applicability and acceptance of continuing education credit for this activity.

Method of Participation and Credit

  1. Register for the activity.    
  2. Review the target audience, learning objectives, and disclosure information.
  3. Study the educational content of the enduring material.
  4. Choose the best answer to each activity test question. To receive credit and a certificate, you must pass the test questions with a minimum score of 100%.
  5. Complete the post-activity assessment survey.

If you have concerns regarding the CE/CME system, please contact support@statpearls.com.

Disclaimer

This educational activity was planned and produced in accordance with the ACCME Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited Continuing Education. Faculty may discuss investigational products or off-label uses of products regulated by the FDA. Readers should verify all information before employing any therapies described in this educational activity.

The information provided for this activity is for continuing education purposes only and is not meant to substitute for the independent medical/clinical judgment of a healthcare provider relative to diagnostic and treatment options of a specific patient’s medical condition. The information presented does not necessarily reflect the views of StatPearls or any commercial supporters of educational activities on statpearls.com. StatPearls expressly disclaims responsibility for any adverse consequences resulting directly or indirectly from information in the course, for undetected error, or through a participant's misunderstanding of the content.

Unapproved Uses of Drugs/Devices: In accordance with FDA requirements, the audience is advised that information presented in this continuing education activity may contain references to unlabeled or unapproved uses of drugs or devices. Please refer to the FDA-approved package insert for each drug/device for full prescribing/utilization information.

Cancellation Policy: Please see the cancellation policy. StatPearls, LLC reserves the right to cancel any course due to unforeseen circumstances.

 

 
 

Reviews

Ajith N. on 7/8/2021

Thomas C. on 12/6/2021

John L. on 10/17/2022

Tab B. on 12/31/2022

Gaston D. on 1/28/2023

Larry E. on 3/13/2023

none

Iftikhar A. on 6/25/2023

Darryl F. on 7/25/2023

Jonathan L. on 10/14/2023

Jameson E. on 1/18/2024

Jessica C. on 4/1/2024

James M. on 4/17/2024

shahid m. on 4/27/2024

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