Which symptom indicates the need for medical evaluation after OC spray exposure?

• A. Severe eye pain
• B. Mild eye irritation that lasts a few minutes
• C. Shortness of breath that resolves quickly
• D. Symptoms lasting beyond the typical duration

Answer: (D)

Symptoms that persist beyond the typical duration after OC spray exposure indicate the need for medical evaluation. OC spray typically causes temporary eye, skin, and airway irritation that resolves within minutes to about an hour. When these effects continue past that normal window, it suggests a more lasting irritation or potential airway involvement that a clinician should assess. Brief, mild symptoms that quickly fade are expected, so they don’t usually require medical care. If symptoms linger, worsen, or new symptoms appear, seek medical evaluation.