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182 Healthcare: Ethylene Oxide Safety
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Acute Exposures

Acute exposure to EtO can occur during a single shift or event. Once removed from the environment, the acute effects will typically resolve over time.

Acute exposures to EtO can occur during a single event.

Acute effects of inhaling EtO vapors include:

  • irritation (eyes, skin, nose, throat)
  • peculiar taste
  • headache
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • difficulty breathing
  • drowsiness
  • weakness
  • exhaustion
  • frostbite
  • cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin color)

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

1-3. Which of the following is an acute effect from inhaling ethylene oxide?