Inhalant Abuse
Compiled by Tamara Espejo, RN, MS
4.0 Contact Hours
California Board of Registered Nursing CEP#15122
Key Medical Resources, Inc.
6896 Song Sparrow Rd, Eastvale, CA 92880
951 520-3116 FAX: 951 739-0378
Disclaimer: This packet is intended to provide information and is not a substitute for any facility
policies or procedures or in-class training. Legal information provided here is for information only
and is not intended to provide legal advice. Each state or facility may have different training
requirements or regulations. Participants who practice the techniques do so voluntarily.
Information has been compiled from various internet sources as indicated at the end of the
packet.
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Title: INHALATION ABUSE
4.0 C0NTACT HOURS CEP #15122 70% is Passing Score
Please note that C.N.A.s cannot receive continuing education hours for home study.
Key Medical Resources, Inc. 6896 Song Sparrow Rd., Corona, CA 92880
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EVALUATION FORM
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Other Comments:
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Title: INHALATION ABUSE
Self Study Module 4.0 C0NTACT HOURS
Choose the Single Best Answer for the Following Questions and Place Answers on Form:
1.
Products commonly abused by inhaling include all of the following except:
A.
Lighter fluid, gas, butane
B.
Paint, air fresheners, laughing gas
C.
Asthma inhalers, nail polish, hair spray
D.
Oxygen, ipecac, epinephrine
2.
The appeal of using inhalants includes:
A.
Longer onset of effect
B.
More challenging to obtain
C.
Status because of rising cost
D.
Quality and pattern of the high
3.
Characteristics of youths likely to start using are:
A.
Emotionally stable
B.
Resistant to peer pressure
C.
Supportive family
D.
Risk taker
4.
The process of inhaling vapors from an open container is called:
A.
Huffing
B.
Sniffing
C.
Spraying
D.
Bagging
5.
The term for groups of inhalant abusers, most likely to be involved in serious legal
offenses, is:
A.
Transient social
B.
Transient isolate
C.
Chronic isolate
D.
Chronic social
6.
Inhalants are absorbed into the blood from the alveoli.
A.
True
B.
False
1
7.
Signs of inhalant abuse include all of the following except:
A.
Constantly smelling
B.
Clothing—sleeves
C.
Increased appetite
D.
Red or runny eyes and nose
E.
Sores around the mouth
8.
Inhalant intoxication can develop within:
A.
5 minutes
B.
10 minutes
C.
15 minutes
D.
20 minutes
9.
"Tolerance" means that inhalers can use less frequently and in lesser amounts to get the same
effect.
A.
True
B.
False
10.
Cardiovascular effects from inhalant usage include:
A.
Vasoconstriction
B.
Bradycardia
C.
Cardiomyopathy
D.
Pharyngitis
11.
A diagnostic evaluation of an inhalant abuser should include all of the following except:
A.
ECG
B.
Neuropsychologic testing
C.
Bone scan
D.
MRI
12.
A routine drug screen can detect inhalant usage.
A.
True
B.
False
13.
Asphyxiation from inhaling is caused from displacement of available oxygen in the lungs.
A.
True
B.
False
14.
"Sudden Sniffing Death" can occur the first time someone uses inhalants.
A.
True
B.
False
2
15.
Long term consequences of inhaling include:
A.
Suicide
B.
Choking
C.
Suffocation
D.
Dementia
16.
Guidelines for parents trying to prevent their children from using inhalants include having
children do as they are told rather than making their own judgments and fostering
independence.
A.
True
B.
False
17.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics website, the following steps can help
prevent your child from turning to inhalants, EXCEPT:
A.
Set a good example at home
B.
Help your child develop different interests
C.
Help your child resist peer pressure
D.
Do not talk about drugs with your child
E.
Build self-esteem and confidence.
18.
Inhalant abuse is the 4th most common form of drug abuse by adolescents.
A.
True
B.
False
19.
Sudden sniffing death occurs when sniffing household products stops oxygen from
reaching the brain and other organs.
A.
True
B.
False
20.
Inhalants are substances whose vapors can be inhaled to produce a mind-altering effect.
A.
True
B.
False
21.
Death from inhalant abuse can occur after a single use or after prolonged use.
A.
True
B.
False
22.
Users may also inhale from balloons filled with nitrous oxide or other devices such as
snappers and poppers in which inhalants are sold.
A.
True
B.
False
23.
Inhalants combined with alcohol, sleeping pills, or other illicit drugs decrease the risk of death.
A.
True
B.
False
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24.
Inhalant abusers may spray chemicals into plastic bags or onto rags and hold them over their
mouth and nose, causing skin breakdown.
A.
True
B.
False
25.
Detoxification can take up to 40 days after which the patient will be completely cured.
A.
True
B.
False
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Title: Inhalant Abuse
Self Study Module 4.0 C0NTACT HOURS
Please note that C.N.A.s in California cannot receive continuing education hours for home study.
Objectives
At the completion of this program, the learners will:
1. Define inhalants
2. Identify classes and examples of inhalants
3. Recognize reasons why youths are using inhalants
4. Acknowledge inhalant practices by gender and ethnicity
5. State methods of inhalation and the most frequent site of usage
6. Explain the effects of inhalants on the body
7. Define inhalant intoxication, withdrawal, tolerance and addiction
8. Identify emergency treatment
9. Recognize fatal and long-term consequences of inhaling
10. Correlate the relationship of inhalant abuse and delinquent behavior
11. List three clinical/nursing interventions to assist the patient who abuses inhalants
12. Complete exam components at a 70% competency
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Introduction
Inhalant abuse is a growing trend and it can be challenging to recognize the early warning signs,
which makes it more difficult to treat. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of inhalant abuse is an
important assessment tool of any health care provider. As an important aspect of health promotion in
the pediatric and adolescent population, screening efforts should address conditions that cause
significant morbidity and mortality before it becomes life threatening.
According to the American Family Physician (AFP) about one-quarter of school aged children 'huff'.
In addition, the AFP revealed that the average age of children is 12 years of age when they first see
or hear about a classmate who huffs.
There are an alarming number of youths inhaling chemicals for euphoric purposes. Previously
considered a drug of adolescents, inhalants are being used increasingly by preteen aged children,
some as young as 5 and 6years old. Cheap and abundant, inhalants are an easy way for youths to
"get high". These substances are physically and psychologically addicting and can cause death.
Nurses need to be able to recognize the signs of inhalant abuse. This is especially important,
because most abusers seek help for medical or psychological problems, without mentioning the
source of the problems—Inhalants.
Statistics
Inhalants have been used throughout history to alter consciousness. Statistics from 2008 show a
decline in the use of inhalants by youths. In the past decade there has been a concerted effort to
educate healthcare professionals, educators, law enforcement, retailers, youths and parents about
inhalants. Although there is a decline in overall usage, inhalants are being used by a significant
number of school children. For example, more than 15% of eighth graders have used inhalants.
Another statistical "red flag" is that there is a decline in the number of youths who do not perceive
using inhalants are detrimental.
Monitoring the Future (MTF) is an ongoing study for the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) of
the behaviors, attitudes, and values of American secondary school students, college students, and
young adults. The following is from the 2008 data:


Drug usage--Each year, a total of 50,000 8th, 10th and 12th grade students are surveyed.
The 2008 MTF marks the sixth year in a row that illicit drug use among 8th, 10th, and 12th
graders remained stable or decreased. In particular, the proportion of 8th and 10th graders
reporting the use of any illicit drug in the prior 12 months declined significantly from 2007 to
2008. The decrease in illicit drug use among 8th graders continues a decline begun in 1997,
but this is the first significant decline among 10th graders since 1998.
Inhalant usage--In 2008, inhalant use among 8th and 10th graders was the lowest seen in
these grades since their addition to the survey in 2001. Among 8th graders, lifetime* use
decreased from 17.1% in 2007 to 15.2% in 2008, and from 15.2% to 13.5% among 10th
graders. Use rates among 12th graders were at their lowest in about 20 years.
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Perceived risk of inhalants--However, the 2002 survey reported a decline among 8th
graders in the perceived risk of trying inhalants once or twice, and the perceived risk of regular
use of inhalants also decreased among 10th graders. Historically, changes in "perceived risk"
tends to predict increases or declines in use rates for following years.
*"lifetime" refers to using the drug at least once during a respondent’s lifetime.
Prevalence of Inhalant Abuse
Most children and adolescents say they are aware of people who breathe in fumes of household
products such as glue, paint, or cleaners, and nearly 25% say their friends 'huff' according to the
American Academy of Pediatrics who sponsored a survey on inhalant abuse.
The survey found that 62% of the 10 to 17 year-olds surveyed know what huffing is. Only 67% of
children 10 to 11 years of age have learned about inhalants in the classroom, and only 48% have
talked with their parents about inhalant abuse. But, this age group is the most likely to have been
personally exposed to inhalants.
The abuse of inhalants is widespread across the United States; however, it may be underreported
because law enforcement officials and healthcare providers are often unfamiliar with the signs of
inhalant abuse. Almost 17 million individuals have experimented with inhalants at some point in their
lives.
Inhalants are the 4th most abused substances in the United States among 8th, 10th, and 12th
graders; alcohol, cigarettes, and marijuana are the top three according.
Facts About Inhalant Abuse
Users inhale vapors from a wide range of substances found in more than 1,000 common household
products. Inhalants are breathed in through the nose or mouth in a variety of ways. Abusers begin by
inhaling deeply; they then take several more breaths. Abusers may inhale, by sniffing or snorting,
chemical vapors directly from open containers or by huffing fumes from rags that are soaked in a
chemical substance and then held to the face or stuffed in the mouth. Other methods include spraying
aerosols directly into the nose or mouth or pouring inhalants onto the user’s collar, sleeves, or cuffs
and sniffing them over a period of time, such as during class. In a practice known as bagging, fumes
are inhaled from substances sprayed or deposited inside a paper or plastic bag.
Alternatively, the fumes may be discharged into small containers such as soda cans and then inhaled
from the can. Users may also inhale from balloons filled with nitrous oxide or other devices such as
snappers and poppers in which inhalants are sold.
Inhalants are substances whose vapors can be inhaled to produce a mind-altering effect and can be
categorized as:
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
Volatile solvents are liquids that vaporize at room temperature when left in unsealed
containers. They are found in gasoline, felt-tip markers, paint thinners, correction fluids, some
nail polish removers, degreasers, and glues.

Aerosols are spray containers containing propellants and solvents such as toluene. Common
aerosols include hair spray, vegetable oil sprays used in cooking, whipping cream, paint,
deodorant and fabric protector. Silver and gold paint are especially popular among inhalant
abusers.

Gases are substances with no definite shape or volume. Abusers inhale gases found in
butane lighters, air conditioning units, ether, nitrous oxide, and propane tanks. The most
commonly abused gas, nitrous oxide, is found in whipped cream dispensers and products that
boost octane levels in racing cars. It is also sold at raves or drug paraphernalia stores in the
form of balloons or as vials called "whippets"

Nitrites such as cyclohexyl nitrite, amyl nitrite, and butyl nitrite are used mainly to enhance
sexual experiences. They are available in adult bookstores and over the internet. Cyclohexyl
nitrite is also found in room deodorizers.
Abusers use several different techniques to inhale:
•
"Huffing" involves inhaling vapors from a cloth soaked in a volatile substance, which is
held over the mouth and nose. Huffing is preferred by 60% of youths;
then
•
"Sniffing" implies inhaling vapors from an open container. Sometimes a substance
as glue is heated in a frying pan. Other times a small confined area, such as a
closet or
automobile, is filled with vapors such as butane;
such
•
"Spraying" implies spraying an aerosol directly into the mouth;
•
"Bagging" refers to placing the volatile substance into a plastic bag which is then held
the mouth and nose.
over
The above products are usually a mix of toxic and poisonous chemicals. Many have a strong smell
and inhalants are not illegal drugs like cocaine or crack. Instead, they are used for specific purposes
like cleaning, making model airplanes, or fueling cars. If used correctly, inhalants are generally safe
for their intended purpose. Like illegal drugs, inhalants are dangerous for people to take into their
bodies. Youths are divided between those who experiment with inhalants (50%) and those who were
heavy users (50%).
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Street Terms for Inhalants
Amys
Bolt
Bullet
Glading
Hardware
Hippie crack
Locker room
Poppers
Snappers
Bang
Boppers
Climax
Gluey
Head cleaner
Kick
Poor man's pot
Rush
Toncho (octane booster)
What are the Effects?
Inhalants act like a poison once inside the body. When someone sniffs or huffs, the toxic gases rush
into the lungs, where it is rapidly transported to the pulmonary alveoli. The alveoli have a large
capillary network that promotes the absorption of inhaled substances into the blood. Then the gases
speed into the bloodstream to carry the poisons into the muscles and organs such as the brain, heart,
kidneys, and liver. Once the inhalant binds with hemoglobin, (a compound in the blood that carries
oxygen), it will prevent the blood cells from picking up oxygen in the lungs. As a result, the oxygen
cannot reach the brain and suffocates the person who huffs the toxic chemical. Due to their easy
absorption into fat, solvents are readily transported to the brain. They have direct effects on both the
central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system (nerves throughout
the body).
Some of the inhalants leave through the lungs, kidneys, and skin. You can actually smell an inhalant
odor on an abuser’s skin or breath. Most of the inhalant—but not necessarily all of it—leaves the body
within two weeks. Some of the toxic chemicals are stored in the body’s fat forever. They remain in the
fatty tissue of the brain, nervous system, kidneys, liver, heart, and muscles and can cause permanent
damage.
Death from inhalant abuse can occur after a single use or after prolonged use. The most serious
hazard for inhalant abusers is a syndrome called 'sudden sniffing death', which may result within
minutes of inhalant abuse from irregular heart rhythm leading to heart failure and death. Other causes
of death include asphyxiation, aspiration, or suffocation. A user who is suffering from impaired
judgment may also experience fatal injuries from motor vehicle accidents or sudden falls. Chronic
exposure to inhalants causes widespread and long-lasting damage to the nervous system and other
vital organs. The toxic chemicals damage parts of the brain that control learning, movement, vision,
and hearing. Damage to the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys may be permanent.
Inhalant intoxication can develop within 5 minutes and generally subsides in approximately one hour.
The inhalant abuser that has recently been inhaling typically presents with a disheveled appearance,
chemical odor on the breath and clothes, and stains on skin and clothes.
Why are Inhalants Used?
9
Healthcare professionals, teachers and parents have difficulty understanding the appeal of inhalants
to youths. The following are some of the reasons they have been found to be appealing:






A rapid onset of effect--A "high" is reached within a few minutes of inhaling, much quicker
than an alcohol induced high. Youths often want instant gratification and inhalants provide this;
Quality and pattern of the high--Abusers describe effects such as euphoria, giddiness,
and lightheadedness. Some users experience a surge of creativity; others describe feelings of
excitement;
Low cost--Many who abuse inhalants have limited incomes or are children who do not have
the financial means to purchase other drugs. Poverty and lack of opportunity potentiate
inhalant use;
Easy to conceal--Youths frequently carry the product they abuse with them, often for use in
the classroom or at social functions. Parents’ unfamiliarity with the abuse potential of inhalants
contributes to their attractiveness for youngsters. They are easy to conceal from parents, there
are no dealers, no paraphernalia, no needles or track marks; just a small container of
frequently used products such as nail polish;
Legality--Purchase and possession of these substances is not restricted or illegal in most
areas. Some states have laws that prohibit the inhalation of these products in public places;
Easily available--Inhalants are different from other drugs in that they are not sold illegally on
street corners, parking lots and malls. Inhalants can also be purchased in numerous retail
stores and sometimes are shoplifted or used in retail stores, without purchasing. Inhalants are
in many rooms in our homes.
Some nitrite abusers (who tend to be adults rather than adolescents) seek to enhance the sexual
experience. Inhaled nitrites dilate blood vessels, increase the pulse rate, and produce a sensation of
heat and excitement that can last several minutes.
Characteristics of Users
Parents frequently deny the possibility that their child has used inhalants. Children without support
systems and positive coping mechanisms frequently look to inhalants as a method of escaping their
problems. Such youths may have the following characteristics:




Emotional stress - Sometimes a crisis has recently occurred either at school or at home;
Dysfunctional Home - Frequently one or both parents use alcohol or drugs;
Risk taker - Youths are frequently risk takers and use inhalants even though they have heard
of the detrimental effects. Typically, they do not believe the effects will apply to them;
Low self esteem - These individuals have a low opinion of themselves and are often
vulnerable to peer pressure.
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Gender and Inhalant Use
A decade ago, inhalants were considered a drug abused by males. According to studies, these
demographics have changed:


There are no gender differences in age of onset of inhalant use, lifetime frequency of inhalant
use, frequency of inhalant use in the past, or preferred method of using inhalants;
There is a continued increase of inhalant use among females compared to males.
Ethnicity
Literature from the 80’s described the typical user of inhalants as a Native American or Hispanic
male. New data has found that there is a strong pattern of decreases in inhalant use among Native
American adolescents over the last decade.
Data indicates that a number of social and perceptual correlates of inhalant use operate similarly
across Mexican American, Native American and non-Latino white adolescents. Peer factors appear
dominant, although they are somewhat less important for Mexican American and Native American
youths. Increased perception of harm has reduced inhalant use for all groups.
Reporting of inhalant usage is also affected by ethnic background. White youths (36.1%) and youths
from other ethnic backgrounds (44.4%) are significantly more likely to report past inhalant use than
African-American youths (1.4%).
Where Do Inhalers Use?
Research shows that 60% of youths reported using inhalants with friends present, whereas 40% used
inhalants when they were alone. Sites where youths reported inhalant use include:






at a friend’s home (68%),
at their own home (54%),
on the street (40%),
at parties (28%),
on school grounds (26%)
at school (18%)
Researchers categorize people who abuse substances on the basis of length of abuse and whether
they use such substances alone or in the presence of others.
Transient abusers have a short-term history of abuse:


Transient social abusers tend to be preteens or teenagers who use substances in the
presence of others. Legal problems include minor offenses while intoxicated;
Transient isolate abusers are in the same age group but tend to abuse solvents while alone.
This group is unlikely to have legal problems.
11
Chronic abusers have used for years:


Chronic social abusers tend to be in their 20’s and 30’s and have used substances in the
presence of other for years. Legal problems include misdemeanors;
Chronic isolate abusers are in the same age group, but abuse drugs while alone. Legal
problems include significant offenses including assaults.
Chronic abusers of inhalants often starting using inhalants early in life, but instead of moving on to
other drugs, choose a certain inhalant as their drug of choice. For example, they may choose to use
only gold spray paint.
Signs of Use
Signs of inhalant abuse can include:















Unusual breath odor or chemical odor on clothing
Sitting with a pen or marker near the nose
Slurred or disoriented speech
Anxiety, excitability, irritability or restlessness
Drunk, dazed or dizzy appearance
Constantly smelling clothing sleeves
Showing paint or stain marks on the face, fingers or clothing
Hiding rags, clothes or empty containers (such as air fresheners) of the potentially abused
products in closets and other places
Signs of paint or other products where they wouldn’t normally be, such as on the face or
fingers
Red or runny eyes or nose
Spots or sores around the mouth
Nausea or loss of appetite
Lack of coordination
Nausea or loss of appetite
Failing grades, chronic absence and general apathy
Withdrawal - Tolerance - Addiction
According to the APA, a withdrawal syndrome has been described that can begin 24-48 hours after
cessation of use and last from 2 to 5 days. Symptoms include sleep disturbances, tremor, irritability,
diaphoresis, nausea and fleeting illusions. Youths often complain of headaches or abdominal cramps.
Parents and healthcare personnel often think these symptoms are simply symptoms of "the flu."
Additional symptoms exhibited by long-term inhalant abusers include weight loss, muscle weakness,
disorientation, inattentiveness, irritability, and depression. Withdrawal symptoms include:
 Sweating
 Rapid pulse
 Hand tremors
12










Insomnia
Nausea
Vomiting
Grand mal seizures
Liver disease (hepatitis or cirrhosis)
Acute or chronic renal failure
Sleep disturbances
Bone marrow depression
Cardiac arrhythmias
Respiratory damage (lung or sinus damage, pneumonitis, emphysema, ling changes or
respiratory depression)
If users inhale these substances continually and increase the amounts, they will develop a tolerance.
This means that they will have to use the inhalants more frequently and in greater volume to get the
desired effect. Recurrent inhalant use may result in the individual giving up or reducing important
social, occupational or recreational activities. Also, substance use may continue despite the
individual’s knowledge of physical problems (e.g., liver disease, central and peripheral nervous
system damage) or psychological problems (e.g., severe depression). The potential for addiction as
well as psychological dependence is high.
Assessment
Careful assessment of persons who are potentially using inhalants is vital in helping individuals avoid
the serious complications. Due to the variety of health problems associated with inhalant use, and the
vagueness of many of the symptoms of use, a thorough assessment is necessary.
Clients can be encountered in a number of health care settings, including schools, clinics, psychiatric
or addictions counseling environments, emergency rooms and throughout the acute care settings.
Sometimes inhalers are referred for healthcare assessment by the legal system or social service
agencies.
The assessment process should include a history, physical, psychological and diagnostic evaluation.
History
The quality and quantity of data elicited will depend on the practitioner’s sensitivity to the client. The
practitioner’s communication style is adapted to specific circumstances. If the client is intoxicated, the
interview may have to be conducted after detoxification. Completing a history may be difficult and
frequently must be carried out over a period of time. This is necessary to distinguish between
manifestations that are due to intoxication versus long-term complications. Information must be
collected on the inhalant abused; the manner, duration, and frequency of abuse, and the use of other
chemicals—such as alcohol—in addition to the inhalant. Sample questions include:
13






At what age did you start inhaling?
When did you last inhale?
Have you ever passed out from inhaling?
Have you experienced hallucinations?
Do you notice a decrease in your ability to concentrate?
Is it difficult to stop huffing once you have started?
 In addition to obtaining a medical history that asks questions pertaining to the effects of
inhalants, it is recommended that the person who is performing the assessment obtain
information pertaining to childhood disease, history of injuries and acute or chronic infections
(including STDs). Clients under the influence of chemicals often do not take precautions to
protect themselves from sexually transmitted disease. Additionally, the client should be
requested to sign a release of medical information. Depending on the age of the client, some
of the data may need to be obtained from a parent /guardian. The following collaborative
information is helpful:
 Change in behavior or attendance at school; teachers will frequently report a change in grades
or conduct in the classroom
 Arrest for substance abuse offense.
 Youths frequently display deviant, disruptive or delinquent behavior
 Personality changes
Physical Assessment
Manifestations vary, depending on the types of inhalants, amount of substances used and the
duration of the use. The physical assessment should include objective and subjective data. The
following systems should be assessed. Objective data should be collected with consideration for the
possibility of the following disorders:





Cardiovascular - After a solvent is inhaled, a peripheral vasodilatation results, with variable
degrees of hypotension and reflex tachycardia. Chronic exposure to volatile substances may
cause dilated cardiomyopathy or myocarditis and additionally cases of cardiac arrhythmias and
myocardial infarction;
Neurologic - Cerebral cortex damage can cause changes in personality, memory loss,
hallucinations and learning problems. Cerebellum damage can cause problems in balance and
movement. Hippocampus damage may result in memory problems. Peripheral neuropathy has
been reported secondary to chronic inhalant abuse;
Respiratory - Coryza, pharyngitis, and pulmonary failure from aspiration are consequences
of inhaling. Rales, rhonchi, bronchitis and pneumonia may be noted. The diagnosis of Inhalant
abuse is often missed, and the respiratory condition may be treated without an evaluation of
the cause;
Gastrointestinal - Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain may be noted during intoxication
and withdrawal. Manifestations of chronic abuse include anorexia and weight loss. Impaired
liver function may be noted;
Musculoskeletal - Muscle weakness has been noted from using products that contain
toluene, such as lacquer thinner;
14



Urological - The renal tubules may suffer damage from inhalants, altering electrolyte levels;
Hematology - Bone marrow depression is a complication of inhalant abuse. Toxic effects of
inhalant abuse include anemia, thrombocytopenia, leukemia, and hemolysis;
HEENT - Often the inhalant is placed in a plastic bag and the fumes are inhaled by mouth
(huffing). This causes sores in the mouth or a rash around the mouth. Sniffing causes chronic
nosebleeds and sores in the nose. Freezing of the lips and mouth can occur when the
substance is inhaled directly from a cylinder. Other manifestations include tinnitus, sneezing,
hyper salivation and conjunctival irritation.
Psychological Assessment
The inhalant abuser may appear apathetic or belligerent and exhibit impaired judgment. Family and
school officials often dismiss these manifestations as just adolescent behavior. Other behaviors to
observe for include:











Difficulty concentrating
Irritability
Depression
Apathy
Hostility
Violent temper outbursts
Paranoia
Hallucinations
Anxiety
Lack of motivation
Mood swings
Specific questions should be asked in the following areas:









Previous suicidal ideation/plan
Actual suicide attempts in past (dates and methods)
Current suicidal ideations/plan
Previous psychiatric care/current psychiatric care
Symptoms of depression
Recent loss of significant others, including pets
Feelings of hopelessness/helplessness
Sleep and appetite disturbances
Social withdrawal
15
Diagnostic Evaluation








Inhalant users should be assessed with computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI) studies of the brain. Most inhalants contain solvents which target and dissolve
fatty tissue in the brain, liver, kidneys and adrenal glands. New research suggests inhalants
also dissolve the myelin sheath of neurons in the brain;
Inhalants are not detected by routine drug screens, but a routine drug screen is recommended
to rule out other drugs. Laboratory identification of inhalant abuse most often requires analysis
of body fluids by gas chromatography;
A complete blood count (CBC) should be performed to determine if any of the following are
present: infection, anemia, leukocytosis, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytosis, or platelet
defects;
Creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and urinalysis to assess kidney function should be
included in the workup;
Serum electrolytes should be assessed to determine if there is an electrolyte imbalance such
as hypercholeremia, hypokalemia and hypophosphatemia;
Electrocardiogram (ECG) and chest x-ray should be used to determine heart and lung
damage;
Visual and auditory-evoked potentials are abnormal in children who have significant abuse
history;
Neuropsychologic testing is recommended.
Fatal Consequences of Inhalant Use
Death from using inhalants can occur from several factors:





Injury - Impaired judgment is a consequence of inhalant abuse. Inhalers have been known to
try and swim across a river or fly off a building;
Asphyxiation and Suffocation - Asphyxiation is caused from repeated inhalations, which
lead to high concentrations of inhaled fumes displacing the available oxygen in the lungs.
Suffocation occurs from blocking air from entering the lungs when inhaling fumes from a plastic
bag placed over the head;
Choking - Users can choke on their own vomit;
Suicide - A frequently used method of inhalation is for the abuser to place a plastic bag over
the head or wrap the body in plastic with the inhalant enclosed. As a result, the inhaler passes
out from the inhalant and suffocates to death;
Sudden death - Sudden death is caused from a cardiac arrhythmia. According to Harvey
Weiss, director of the National Inhalant Prevention Coalition, "Inhalants can cause serious
central nervous system damage and death. They sensitize the heart to adrenaline, so a
sudden rush of adrenaline, combined with inhalant use, can make the heart stop instantly. This
phenomenon is known as sudden sniffing death syndrome and can occur the 1st, 10th, or
100th time someone uses an inhalant." Sudden sniffing death, as it is called, is responsible for
more than half of all deaths due to inhalant abuse.
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Long Term Consequences




Kaposi’s Sarcoma - Amyl and butyl nitrates have been associated with Kaposi’s sarcoma,
the most common cancer reported with AIDS patients. Early studies of Kaposi’s sarcoma
showed that many people with Kaposi’s sarcoma had used volatile nitrates. Researchers are
continuing to explore the hypothesis that nitrates are a contributing factor to the development
of Kaposi’s sarcoma in HIV-infected people;
Inhalant Induced Persisting Dementia - In order for this type of dementia to be
diagnosed, there must be evidence from the history, physical exam or laboratory findings that
the deficits are etiologically related to the persisting effects of inhalants. This disorder is termed
"persisting" because the dementia persists long after the individual has experienced the effects
of inhalant intoxication and withdrawal;
Burns - The highly flammable nature of inhalants leads to burns. Inhalants cause impaired
judgment. Youths have received burns from lighting a cigarette while inhaling, or, in rural
settings, throwing a used inhalant container in a bonfire;
Developmental harm to fetuses - Abuse of inhalants during pregnancy may place infants
and children at increased risk of developmental harm.
o Further, in these children report some evidence of retardation in growth and
development and residual deficits in cognitive, speech, and motor skills;
o There is also some limited evidence of neonatal withdrawal from inhalants. It is
recommended that infants born to women who have recently used inhalants be
observed carefully for an alcohol-like withdrawal syndrome;
o Although it is not possible to link a specific birth defect or developmental problem in the
child of an inhalant abuser to prenatal exposure to a specific chemical, it is clear that
inhalant abuse places children at increased risk. Animal studies, designed to simulate
human patterns of inhalant abuse, suggest that prenatal exposure to toluene or
trichlorethylene (TCE) can result in reduced birth weights, occasional skeletal
abnormalities, and delayed neurobehavioral development;
o A number of case reports note abnormalities in newborns of mothers who chronically
abuse solvents. There is also evidence of subsequent developmental impairment in
some of these children. However, no well-controlled, prospective study of the effects of
prenatal exposure to inhalants in humans has been conducted, and it is not possible to
link prenatal exposure to a specific chemical to a specific birth defect or developmental
problem.
Delinquent Behavior & Inhalant Use
More minor criminal activity has been reported among inhalant users and experimenters in upper (912) grade level students, than other drug users and experimenters of the same age. There is a similar
trend for "trouble behavior." Again, the same was not found for drinking and drug-taking behavior.
The findings suggest that inhalant use is categorically different from other drug use, and that it has
more in common with general delinquency than with general drug use.
17
Addiction Treatment Effectiveness
Treatment facilities for inhalant abusers are hard to find.
Program directors of drug user treatment programs have been surveyed, and the research shows that
they perceive a great deal of neurological damage incurred through inhalant use. They also have a
general pessimism about treatment effectiveness and recovery.
Detoxification averages 40 days and treatment for inhalant abusers is usually long-term, sometimes
as long as 2 years. It must address the many social problems most inhalant abusers have and
involves:

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


Support of the child's family
Moving the child away from unhealthy friendships with other abusers
Teaching and fostering better coping skills
Building self-esteem and self-confidence
Helping the child adjust to school or another learning setting
Relapse
Patterns leading to addiction are hard to erase, and recovering from inhalation abuse involves more
than simply abstinence. Inhalant abusers have high relapse rates, making aftercare and follow-up
extremely important. During treatment, many of the stresses of everyday life are removed. Returning
to the previous life may produce all of the old problems.
The warning signs of relapse include returning to old habits, friends, hangouts or denial. An example
of denial is "I no longer have to worry about using inhalants." Without on-going support, the person’s
coping mechanisms may be too fragile to resist returning to old patterns.
The following are recommended:



Aftercare - Aftercare takes a variety of forms. It often includes a structured plan for relapse
prevention and active participation in treatment issues. For many users, treatment must
continue for an extended period of time—possibly up to two years.
Support Group - Groups such as NA or AA use a 12-step approach to help the recovering
person develop a different life style. Hearing the facts from those who are recovering and are
willingly making the commitment to achieve a drug-free lifestyle is a particularly effective part
of the person’s support.
Sponsor - Each newly recovering person will benefit from having a sponsor. A sponsor is a
recovering person who is always available to the new member by telephone for
encouragement, for clarification, and as a sounding board, particularly during the early stages
of recovery.
Youths need empathetic health care professionals who are committed to helping them receive
appropriate treatment. They also need acceptance and understanding as they begin their recovery.
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General Clinical/Nursing Interventions
During the acute phase of inhalation intoxication and detoxification, care focuses on maintaining the
patient's vital functions, ensuring his/her safety, and easing discomfort. During the rehabilitation,
caregivers help the patient acknowledge his/her substance abuse problem and find alternative ways
to cope with stress. Health care professionals can play an important role in helping patients achieve
recovery and stay drug-free. The following are clinical/nursing interventions that are appropriate for
patients during and after acute intoxication:
During an Acute Episode:





Continuously monitor the patient's vital signs and urine output
Maintain a quiet safe environment. Remove harmful objects from the room.
Institute appropriate measures to prevent suicide attempts and assaults,
according to facility policy
Approach the patient in a nonthreatening way. Limit sustained eye contact
s)he may perceive as threatening

Implement seizure precautions

Give medications, as ordered, monitoring and recording their effectiveness.
Medications may include Haldol (for severe agitation), sedatives (to induce sleep),
anticholinergic and antidiarrheal agents (to relieve GI distress), antianxiety Rx.
which
During Drug Withdrawal:
 Administer medications, as ordered, to decrease withdrawal symptoms, monitoring and
recording their effectives
 Maintain a quiet, safe environment because excessive noise may agitate the patient.
When the Acute Episode Has Resolved:






Carefully monitor and promote adequate nutrition
Administer drugs carefully to prevent hoarding. Check the patient's mouth to ensure that (s) he
has swallowed oral medication. Closely monitor visitors who might supply him/her with drugs
Refer the patient for rehabilitation as appropriate. Give him/her a list of available resources
Encourage family members to seek help regardless of whether the abuser seeks it. Suggest
private therapy or community mental health clinics
Develop self-awareness and an understanding and positive attitude toward the patient. The
health care professional should control their reactions to the patient's undesirable behaviors--commonly, psychological dependency, manipulation, anger, frustration and alienation
Set limits when dealing with demanding, manipulative behavior
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Prevention is the Key
Prevention of inhalant abuse is the goal. This involves the entire community, including healthcare
professionals, teachers, parents, peers, law enforcement and retailers. This section provides
information for nurses to assist in the education of others.
Teaching children about inhalants
Children need to be able to differentiate between "good smells" (i.e., cookies baking). and "bad
smells" (i.e., gas). Children who have used inhalants have said, "I had no idea that breathing in these
products could hurt me." It is recommended to start anticipatory guidance early. Six year-old children
are not too young to be taught the dangers of inhalants.
Talking to parents about inhalants
Parents frequently deny that inhalants could be a problem in their families, schools or communities.
More than nine out of ten parents refuse to believe their children may have ever abused inhalants.
While 91% of parents said they had talked to their children about substance abuse, less than half of
those parents had specifically mentioned inhalants. Rural communities may deny the existence or
extent of addiction, so awareness of inhalant use is often minimal.
Some states have laws to try and deal with inhalant abuse, but such laws are not always easy to
enforce. Since inhalants are legal and kids can obtain them in so many different ways, it is not
possible to make inhalants entirely off-limits. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that
the best way to fight inhalant abuse is to educate children about how harmful these products are.
They advocate explaining how they can cause short- and long-term health problems, further drug
abuse, and death. Parents and teachers should also be able to recognize the warning signs of
inhalant abuse. Some suggestions are:





Do not shut children out by simply saying something is 'bad for you'.
Educate yourself and then give your child the right information.
Talk about dangerous behavior, such as inhalant abuse, and explain the consequences.
Help your child develop refusal skills—how to say 'no'.
Listen to your child. Talk with them to learn what pressures they are exposed to and what they
are thinking and feeling.
 Ask your child questions such as 'where are you going?' or 'who will you be with?'
 If you think your child is into inhalant abuse, remain calm. Upsetting them may make them
more violent or trigger a physical response such as sudden sniffing death. If the latter occurs,
ensure a well-ventilated room and seek medical attention quickly.
20
Conclusion
Inhalant abuse is growing, is a frightening problem and can be challenging to recognize early. Easy
accessibility and the relatively low cost of the substances abused indicate that inhalant abuse will
attract new users and continue to be a problem. Although it is often a transient phase of drug
experimentation, inhaling may lead to addiction or other drug usage. The statistics of inhalants usage
are decreasing across America, but this is not a time to become complacent. First time usage can
result in death or in permanent disability. Inhalants are dangerous poisons that were never designed
for human consumption. The most effective way to prevent inhalant abuse is by educating providers,
healthcare workers, teachers, and parents. Information can only increase awareness of the negative
effects of inhalant abuse and may help to make this practice less appealing to our nation’s youth.
Parents may not realize that they have only a few short years in which they can influence their child’s
decision not to abuse inhalants.
It is important that nurses have full access to information that would help them identify inhalant abuse.
The risks add up. Why do abusers take such a risk? Usually because the either are not aware of the
risk or they do not think it applies to them. What the abuser fails to realize is that they are not getting
'high' but they are feeling the lack of oxygen in their brain.
Nurses need to take the leadership in assessing youth, in educating other health care professionals,
educators and the public. Inhalant abuse must not remain an invisible problem. Nurses need to play
an integral role in identification, prevention and education.
21
Classes and Examples of Inhalants
There are approximately 1400 available products that youths inhale to get high. These inhalants fall
into four categories:
Volatile solvents - These are found in
various fuels and paints.
The glue sniffers of the 1960’s
popularized this class of inhalants.
Products abused in this category
include gas, "goop" (a product to resole
shoes), lighter fluid, paint, kerosene,
gun cleaning solvent, cleaning fluids,
nail polish, nail polish remover, rubber
cement, paint thinner, varnish, spot
remover, toxic markers, and propane.
Aerosols - These products are readily
available in virtually every household.
Products abused in this category
include hair spray, spray paints, spray
deodorants, frying pan lubricants, air
fresheners, freon, computer "dust-off",
and fabric protectors. Asthma inhalers
are also abused. Like other aerosols,
they contain fluorocarbons, which
produce euphoric effects. Peers refer to
individuals who choose this product as
"spray heads."
Nitrates - Inhalant nitrates including amyl
nitrate (street names "poppers" and "snappers"), which was originally prescribed for heart
patients. Butyl nitrate (street names "rush", "bolt", "locker room", "bullet" and "climax") is sold as
room freshener. Nitrates are also sold as aphrodisiacs in adult bookstores and through mail
order catalogs.
Anesthetics - Products abused in this category include ether, chloroform and nitrous oxide.
Nitrous oxide is commonly called "laughing gas" and used by dentists. Nitrous oxide is also
sold in balloons at rock concerts and available in small cylinders known as "whippets."
The five substances most frequently used as inhalants include gasoline (by 57.4%), freon (40.45%),
butane lighter fluid (38.3%), glue (29.8%), and nitrous oxide (23.4%)
22
Diagnostic criteria for 292.89--Inhalant Intoxication
The following is the American Psychiatric Association (APA) DSM-IV-TR (2000) criteria for inhalant
Intoxication:
A. Recent intentional exposure to short-term, high dose volatile inhalants (excluding anesthetic gases
and short-acting vasodilators);
B. Clinically significant maladaptive behavioral or psychological changes (for example, belligerence,
assaultiveness, apathy, impaired judgment, impaired social or occupational functioning) that
developed during, or shortly after, use of or exposure to volatile inhalant;
C. Two (or more) of the following signs, developing during, or shortly after, inhalant use or exposure:
1. Dizziness
2. Nystagmus
3. Incoordination
4. Slurred speech
5. Unsteady Gait
6. Lethargy
7. Depressed reflexes
8. Psychomotor retardation
9. Tremor
10. Generalized muscle weakness
11. Blurred vision or Diplopia
12. Stupor or Coma
13. Euphoria
D. The symptoms are not due to a general medical condition and are not better accounted for by
another mental disorder.
According to the APA, during intoxication, acute central nervous system manifestations include
euphoria accompanied with feelings of grandiosity and increased awareness, understanding and
insight. Inhalers experience a distortion of space and visual perception. Common statements include
"the walls are closing in" or the "the sky is falling." Some youths use inhalants specifically for their
hallucinogenic effect. A popular practice is for groups of users to inhale together and then compare
their hallucination. They describe such sensations as "seeing vivid colors" or "hearing sirens."
Other DSM-IV Inhalant Related Disorders
304.60
305.90
292.81
292.82
292.9
Inhalant Dependence
Inhalant Abuse
Inhalant Intoxication Delirium
Inhalant Induced Persisting Dementia
Inhalant-Related Disorder NOS
23
Emergency Treatment
Medical
•
Airway management-- Prevention of aspiration is essential. High-flow oxygen via
a
mask or by endotracheal tube is recommended, if indicated;
•
Vital signs and cardiac monitoring;
•
IV for hydration and access for administration of emergency drugs;
•
Calm environment--Inhalants cause an increased release of catecholamines leading to
increased heart rate and blood pressure.
If the client becomes frightened, it can lead
to
additional release of catecholamines;
•
In the event of accidental ingestion of an inhalant, it is recommended that a
nasogastric
tube be placed and aspirate the stomach contents
within one hour of ingestion. The contents
will absorb into the bloodstream after one hour. Neither syrup
of ipecac, activated charcoal or
aggressive gastric lavage is recommended. Ipecac
could cause aspiration of the solvent
secondary to vomiting. Activated charcoal
doesn’t absorb solvents well and if vomiting from
activated charcoal occurs, the
aspiration risk increases.
•
Medication--There is no recommended medication for withdrawal of inhalant abuse.
However, individual symptoms can be treated with medication for manifestations of
inhalant abuse.
Mental Health
•
Psychological and addiction evaluation--. The abuser may be anxious to convince
healthcare personnel that they will never abuse inhalants again; denial is a common symptom of
addiction. However,
youths should be referred for an addiction
and psychological
evaluation. A psychological evaluation is necessary to rule out
concurrent mental health
problems.
24
What to Do When Someone is Huffing
Remain calm and do not panic.
Do not excite or argue with the abuser when they are under the
influence, as they can become aggressive or violent.
If the person is unconscious or not breathing, call for help.
CPR
should be administered until help arrives.
If the person is conscious, keep him or her calm and in a wellventilated room.
Excitement or stimulation can cause hallucinations or violence.
Activity or stress may cause heart problems which may lead to
"Sudden Sniffing Death."
Talk with other persons present or check the area for clues to what
was used.
Once the person is recovered, seek professional help for abuser:
school nurse, counselor, physician, other health care worker.
If use is suspected, adults should be frank
25
References
American Academy of Pediatrics: 2002, Preventing Inhalant Abuse,
American Psychiatric Association: 2000, Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (4th
ed. text revision), Washington D.C.
Beauvais, Jumper-Thurman, Plested, & Helm: 2002, A survey of attitudes among drug user
treatment providers toward the treatment of inhalant users, Substance Use & Misuse, 37 (11), 1391410
Beauvais, Wayman, Jumper-Thurman, Plested, & Helm: 2002, Inhalant abuse among American
Indian, Mexican American, and non-Latino white adolescents, American Journal of Alcohol Abuse, 28
(1), 171-87
Bykowski, M.:1999, Don’t miss inhalant abuse diagnosis, Pediatric News, 33 (10), 37
Cobaugh, D.:1999, Inhalant abuse, Journal of Emergency Services, 24 (10), 66-75
Cook, K.:1999, Assessment of potential inhalant use by students, Journal of School Nursing, 15 (5),
20-23
Espeland, K.:2000, Inhalant abuse, Lippincott’s Primary Care Practice, 4 (3), 336-340
Howard M. & Jenson J.:1999, Inhalant use among antisocial youth: Prevalence and correlates,
Addictive Behaviors, 24 (1), 59-74
Ives R.:1997, Volatile substance misuse, Journal of Substance Misuse, 2, 54-56
Jones, H. & Balster, R.:1998, Inhalant abuse in pregnancy, Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of
North America, 25 (1), 153-67
Lien-Munson, B.: 2002, How to recognize and treat propellant inhalation, Dimensions of Critical
Care Nursing, Jan/Feb 2002, Vol 21 issue 1, p18
LoVecchio, F. & Gerkin, R.:1997, Inhalants of abuse, Topics in Emergency Medicine, 19 (4), 44-52
McPhee, A. T.:1999, High risk, Current Science, 10/8/99, Vol 85 issue 3, p10
McGarvey E., Clavet G., Mason, W., & Waite, D.:1999, Adolescent inhalant abuse: environments of
use, American Journal of Drug Alcohol Abuse, 25 (4), 731-41
Mackesy-Amiti M. & Fendrich M.:1999, Inhalant use and delinquent behavior among adolescents: a
comparison of inhalant users and other drug users, Addiction, 94 (4), 555-64
26
Munson: 2002, How to recognize and treat propellant inhalation, Dimensions of Critical Care
Nursing, 21 (1), 18-19
National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information of the United States Public Health Service:
2008
National Drug Intelligence Center, Department of Justice, 2001, Intelligence brief: huffing
National Inhalation Prevention Coalition: 2003,
National Institute of Drug Abuse: Mind over Matter,
National Institute of Drug Abuse: 2008,
National Institute of Drug Abuse, National Youth Anti-Drug media Campaign: 2008,
National Medical Society: 2008,
New Straits Times-Management Times, 20008, deadly sniff
Palmer, R.:1997, Huffers and sprayheads: managing the volatile-substance abuse patient,
Emergency, 29 (6), 40-42
Preboth, Monica: 2000, Prevalence of inhalant abuse in children, American Family Physician,
02/15/2000, Vol 61 issue 4, p1206
Ravetti, L.:2000, Patient education for the recovering individual, Lippincott’s Primary Care Practice,
4 (3), 341-343
27
Inhalant Abuse
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