[The etiology and rescue modalities of 1692 cases of acute chemical poisoning].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the etiology and characteristics of rescue of acute chemical poisoning.

METHODS

A total of 1692 cases of acute chemical poisoning were analyzed retrospectively. The kinds of chemicals, the modes of exposure, the characteristics of poisoning and the methods of treatment were analyzed.

RESULTS

Poisoning was due to occupational exposure to chemicals in 44.91%, daily life exposure to chemicals in 38.82% and environment chemical pollution in 16.25% of the cases. The total number of chemicals harming the patients was 173. The most common three of the chemicals were pesticides, harmful gases and organic solvents. Recently, the accidents of mass poisoning were increasing in number.

CONCLUSIONS

To know the numerous chemicals responsible for acute chemical poisoning is essential for enhancing the pre-hospital care, emergency treatment and follow-up treatment. Further more, extensive clinical knowledge and numerous biologic laboratory tests are need to improve the diagnosis and rescue of acute chemical poisoning. In cases of chemical emergency that involves mass exposure, the majority of the affected persons are likely to be exposed to the poisoning chemicals, though some are exposed minimally. Moreover, resources to provide psychological support must be available both for the family member of casualties and the affected personnel.