Veterinary and human toxicology
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Thirty-seven employees were exposed to cyanide between 1956 and 1985. One was found dead. Thirty-six employees were treated; most were given nitrite and oxygen. ⋯ Amyl nitrite and oxygen have been effective tools in the treatment of cyanide intoxication at this plant site. There have been no intercurrent or residual drug effects that outweigh the life-saving capacity of these agents. Sodium nitrite should be employed if the use of oxygen and amyl nitrite fail to improve the cardiovascular status/level of consciousness in 5-10 min.