Which decontamination method is NOT recommended for removing vesicants from casualties?

• A. Flood water
• B. Soap and water
• C. Contaminated clothing remains on until transport
• D. Remove patients clothing

Answer: (D)

Vesicants cause skin injury by sticking to the skin and any clothing, so the priority is to remove the contaminant source and rinse it away as quickly as possible. The best approach is to rapidly remove the patient’s clothing to eliminate the bulk of the agent, then flush the skin with large amounts of clean water to wash away contaminants, followed by washing with soap and water to remove residues. Leaving contaminated clothing on until transport would keep the agent in contact with the skin and could spread contamination to responders and others, increasing injury risk. Therefore, the method that is not recommended is keeping contaminated clothing on until transport.