Firefighter Practice Exam

Which of the following is not recognized as a symptom of ethylene oxide vapor exposure?

1. Eye irritation

2. Skin irritation or burns

3. Irritation of the respiratory system

4. Loss of muscular function

The correct answer is: Irritation of the respiratory system

Ethylene oxide is a colorless gas widely used as a sterilizing agent and in the production of antifreeze and other chemicals. Exposure to ethylene oxide vapor can lead to several recognized symptoms. Eye irritation is a common symptom because ethylene oxide can be a strong irritant to mucous membranes, including those in the eyes. Similarly, skin irritation or burns can occur upon direct contact with the gas or liquid form, emphasizing the chemical's corrosiveness to the skin. Irritation of the respiratory system is also noted as ethylene oxide can be inhaled, leading to symptoms like coughing, difficulty breathing, or other respiratory issues. The correct answer, which is not recognized as a symptom of ethylene oxide vapor exposure, is the loss of muscular function. While ethylene oxide can have various harmful effects, loss of muscular function is not documented as a direct symptom of its exposure. Instead, typical exposure symptoms are primarily irritative in nature, affecting the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract.