What is the correct sequence for chlorine gas patient decontamination?

• A. Move to fresh air, remove contaminated clothing, rinse skin and eyes
• B. Remove clothing, move to fresh air, rinse
• C. Rinse eyes, move to fresh air, remove clothing
• D. Move to fresh air, rinse skin and eyes, remove clothing

Answer: (A)

Chlorine gas exposure is most effectively managed by getting the person out of the contaminated environment and into clean air first, because inhalation is the primary threat to breathing. Moving to fresh air promptly reduces ongoing inhalation and helps stabilize the patient’s breathing.

Next, remove contaminated clothing to cut off ongoing skin contact and absorption of chlorine from fabrics. Clothing can continue to release or hold the chemical against the skin, so taking it off quickly minimizes further exposure.

Finally, rinse the skin and eyes with large amounts of clean water to wash away remaining chlorine. Eye irrigation should be thorough and sustained, and skin should be rinsed to dilute and remove the corrosive agent. This order—air first, clothing removal second, full rinsing third—balances the immediate need for respirational safety with effective chemical decontamination of the skin and eyes. If symptoms persist, treat supportively and seek medical care.