Hydrogen sulfide is a colorless, noxious gas with the distinctive smell of
rotten eggs. This compound is a powerful reducing agent that is encountered
in a number of industrial processes. When hydrogen sulfide is present, it
exposes workers to the potentially lethal effects of the rapid hypoxemia th
at results from exposure to this agent. The "warning sign" is the character
istic smell of rotten eggs; this smell should alert anyone in the area that
a potentially serious risk exists. The immediate removal of the victim and
administration of high-now oxygen is essential. Neurologic sequelae map re
quire anticonvulsants and care must be exercised to observe for cardiac, he
patic, and renal insufficiency. Depending on the concentration, hydrogen su
lfide can rapidly overcome a potential victim.