An individual suspected with smoke inhalation requires immediate care. Smoke inhalation occurs if the products of combustion from a fire are inhaled by the individual.
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Self-care measures
The individual should be removed from the scene to an area with clean air. Make sure that you are not putting yourself in danger before attempting to transfer the individual to a safe area. If there is a risk to your safety, wait for the professionals to arrive at the scene. If needed, CPR should be performed until the emergency team arrives.
Medical care
Various treatments might be provided for smoke inhalation.
Oxygen
The administration of oxygen is a vital key in treatment. It can be given using a nasal tube, mask or via a tube down the throat. If the individual has indications of upper airway issues, he/she is likely to be intubated where the doctor inserts a tube down the throat to prevent the airway from closing due to the swelling.
If an individual has respiratory distress or changes in the mental status, intubation is advised to allow breathing, suction mucus and prevent choking on the secretions.
Bronchoscopy
This is a procedure carried out via a small-sized scope to directly view the degree of damage to the airways and to allow suctioning of debris and secretions.
Bronchoscopy is usually performed via an endotracheal tube after the individual is sedated and given pain medications. The procedure might be required if the individual has worsening respiratory failure, unable to show any clinical improvement or a segment of the lung is still collapsed.
Hyperbaric oxygenation
If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, hyperbaric oxygenation might be considered. The individual is given oxygen in a compression chamber.
Follow-up care
Once the individual is discharged from the hospital, follow-up care is required. The individual must return if he/she feels that the condition is worsening.
Medications that might be given include pain medications and inhalers. The individual will also notice shortness of breath after minimal exertion. Remember that it might take time for the lungs to completely heal and some have scarring and shortness of breath for life.
Constant hoarseness of voice can occur among those who sustained smoke inhalation injuries. Immediate care of these issues can ensure an improved voice.
Quick Note / Disclaimer
The material posted on this page on smoke inhalation is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage breathing emergencies including smoking inhalation, register for a first aid and CPR course with Saskatoon First Aid.