Hydrogen sulfide inhalation injury

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.