Blister Agents

Overview

4.9 out of 5 (13 Reviews)

Credits

1.50

Post Assessment Questions

9

Start Date

1 Jan 2021

Last Review Date

30 Apr 2024

Expiration Date

31 Dec 2023

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. 


Target Audience

This activity has been designed to meet the educational needs of physicians.

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.

Disclosures

The Campbell University Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine (CUSOM) requires instructors, planners, managers, and other individuals who are in a position to control the content of this activity to disclose any real or apparent conflict of interest they or their immediate family may have as related to the content of this activity. All identified conflicts of interest are thoroughly vetted by CUSOM for resolution, to ensure fair balance, scientific objectivity of studies mentioned in the materials or used as the basis for content, and appropriateness of patient care recommendations.

CUSOM will identify, review, and resolve all conflicts of interest that faculty, authors, activity directors, planners, managers, peer reviewers, or relevant staff disclose prior to an educational activity being delivered to learners. Disclosure of a relationship is not intended to suggest or condone bias in any presentation but is made to provide participants with information that might be of potential importance to their evaluation of a presentation. Disclosure information for authors, editors, planners, peer reviewers, and/or relevant staff is provided with this activity.

Continuing Education Accreditation Information

 

 

The Campbell University Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine (CUSOM) is accredited by the American Osteopathic Association to provide osteopathic continuing medical education for physicians. CUSOM designates this enduring material for a maximum of 1.50 AOA Category 1 B Credits and will report CME credits commensurate with the extent of the physician's participation in the activity.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellations must be received in writing and a money back guarantee is provided if not completely satisfied.

  • StatPearls and CUSOM reserve the right to cancel any course due to unforeseen circumstances. StatPearls and CUSOM will not be responsible for other expenses incurred by the participant in the unlikely event that the program is canceled.

Equal Opportunity

  • StatPearls and CUSOM are Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action / Equal Access Institutions. 

Medium or Media Used:

  • Computer Requirements:  Internet Access
  • E-mail Address

Instructions for Credit

  1. Register for the activity and create a StatPearls login.     
  2. Review the required accreditation information:  Target audience, learning objectives and disclosure information.
  3. Complete the entire self-study activity.
  4. Complete the post-test assessments.
  5. Successfully pass the post-test with a minimum score of 100%.
  6. Complete the evaluation form.
  7. Obtain a certificate.

StatPearls and CUSOM adheres to AOA Standards regarding commercial support of continuing medical education. It is the policy of StatPearls and Campbell that the faculty and planning committee disclose real or apparent conflicts of interest relating to the topics of this educational activity, that relevant conflict(s) of interest are resolved and also that authors and editors will disclose any unlabeled/unapproved use of drug(s) or device(s) during their presentation. Detailed disclosure will be made prior to starting the activity.

The information provided at this CME/CE 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.

This course is intended for osteopathic physicians who wish to earn AOA CME credit. Take this version of the course to ensure you receive appropriate credit.

 

 
 

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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