Following a potential mustard gas attack, a patient presents with bradycardia, dizziness, slurred speech, and drooling. What is the most important initial action?

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Immediate decontamination is the priority. Mustard gas acts as a vesicant that irritates skin and mucous membranes, and the danger comes from ongoing absorption and secondary contamination of responders. Quickly removing contaminated clothing and thoroughly washing the patient with water removes most of the agent from skin and eyes, reducing blistering risk and limiting further damage. Only after decontamination should you move the patient to a clean area and proceed with supportive care and definitive treatment. Agents like activated charcoal won’t address a chemical skin exposure, and atropine targets different toxicities and isn’t the initial step for mustard gas.