Chemical Agents of Opportunity for Terrorism: TICs & TIMs

Chemical Agents of Opportunity for Terrorism
Training Support Package
Participant Guide
Slide 24
Many people have unrealistic perceptions of what radiation can do. This is related to our
innate fear of what we do not understand – and are unable to see, as well as the media
portrayal of radiation effects (as in Godzilla movies and comic books). Although the
blast of a dirty bomb (or nuclear bomb) may kill, radiation itself does not cause
immediate death or immediate burns or wounds. Instead, radiation exposure sets in
motion a series of events in various body tissues that may ultimately lead to death in
hours to days to years following exposure. These organ system effects will be described
in the next several slides.
While radiation exposure and/or contamination with radioactive material should be
addressed in the early management of a patient, there is absolutely no risk to healthcare
providers who are treating a patient who has been irradiated. A few simple procedures
reduce healthcare worker exposure when caring for contaminated patients. Treat the
patient first!
December 2008 Version 2.0 Page 387