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File: 082696_doc1_040.txt
CAS Registry Number: 74-90-8
Page 2 of 4
HYDROCYANIC ACID (HYDROGEN CYANIDE)
Signs and Symptoms of Acute Hydrocyanic Acid Exposure:
r Warning: Hydrocyanic acid may be fatal if inhaled, swallowed. or absorbed
skin or mucous membranes. Caution is advised.
Signs and symptoms of acute exposure to hydrocyanic acid may include
hypertension (high blood pressure) and tachycardia (rapid heart rate), followed
by hypotension (low blood pressure) and bradycardia (slow heart rate). Cherry
red mucous membranes and blood may be noted. Cardiac arrhythmias and other
cardiac abnormalities are common. Cyanosis (blue tint to the skin and mucous
membranes) may be observe~
-~ Weakness, headache, vertigo (dizziness), agitation, giddiness, salivation,
nausea, and vomiting, may be followed by combative behavior, convulsions,
paralysis, protruding eyeballs, dilated and unreactive pupils, and coma.
Tachypnea (rapid, shallow respirations) or hyperpnea (rapid, deep respirations)
may be followed by respiratory depression. Lung hemorrhage and pulmonary edema
may also occur.
Hydrocyanic acid is may be irritating to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes.
Lacrimation (tearing) and a burning sensation of the mouth and throat are
common.
Emergency Life-Support Procedures:
Acute exposure to hydrocyanic acid may require decontamination and life support
for the victims. All exposed persons should be transported to a health care
facility as quickly as possible. Emergency personnel should wear protective
clothing appropriate to the type and degree of contamination. Air-purifying or
supplied-air respiratory equipment should also be worn, as necessary. Rescue
vehicles should carry supplies such as plastic sheeting and disposable plastic
bags to assist in preventing spread of contamination.
1 Inhalation Exposure:
I. Move victims to fresh air. Emergency personnel should avoid self-exposure
to hydrocyanic acid.
2. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any
traum~ If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide
artificial respiration. IMIvIEDIATELY begin administering 100% oxygen to
all victims. Monitor victims for respiratory distress.
Warning: To prevent self-poisoning. avoid mouth-to-mouth breathing: use
a forced-oxygen mask. Direct oral contact with hydrocyanic acid-
contaminated persons or their gastric contents can result in self-
poisoning.
j
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