Nitric acid

Definition

Poisoning from exposure to nitric acid.

Poisonous Ingredient

Nitric acid

Where Found

• Agents used to clean metals (such as gun barrels)
  
• Electroplating systems
  
• Fertilizer manufacturing
  

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

From swallowing:

• Body as a whole
  o Severe pain in the mouth
  o Burns to skin or mouth
  o Fever
  
• Respiratory
  o Inability to breathe due to the throat swelling shut
  o Severe pain in the throat
  
• Ggastrointestinal
  o Severe Abdominal pain
  o Vomit containing dark-colored blood
  
• Rapid drop in blood pressure
  

From inhalation:

• Body as a whole
  o Weakness
  o Tight chest
  
• Respiratory
  o Coughing
  o Shortness of breath
  o Coughing up blood
  
• Choking
  
• Bluish colored lips and fingernails
  
• Heart and blood vessels
  o Low Blood pressure
  o Rapid pulse
  
• Dizziness
  

Home Treatment

DO NOT INDUCE Vomiting. If the acid is on the skin or in the eyes, flush with lots of water for at least 15 minutes.

If the acid was swallowed, give water or milk IMMEDIATELY. If the patient is Vomiting, keep giving water or milk. Give milk of magnesia, 4 to 6 oz., if possible.

For inhalation poisoning, move the patient to fresh air.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following:

• The patient's age, weight, and condition
  
• The name of the product (and ingredients and strengths, if known)
  
• The time it was swallowed, inhaled, or touched