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What is recommended for first-aid and decontamination after exposure to an OC agent?
Remove contact lenses if worn
Ignore the symptoms
Only provide water if requested
Use hot water for decontamination
The correct answer is: Remove contact lenses if worn
Removing contact lenses if worn is essential following exposure to an OC agent, which is commonly known as pepper spray. OC agents can cause irritation and inflammation of the eyes, and if contact lenses are not removed, they may trap the irritating substance against the eye surface. This can exacerbate the discomfort and prolong exposure to the chemical irritant, leading to more severe symptoms such as redness, tearing, and potential damage to the cornea. Proper first-aid measures after exposure include decontaminating the skin and eyes thoroughly. The recommendation to remove contact lenses ensures that the eyes can be flushed with water or saline effectively, allowing for better removal of the OC agent and alleviating the symptoms more quickly. This action is part of a broader first-aid protocol designed to minimize harm and promote recovery after exposure to irritants.