A 40-year-old female exposed to chemical fumes complains of difficulty breathing. After ensuring the scene is safe, what should you do next?

Reading the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is critical in this scenario because it provides vital information regarding the chemical that the individual was exposed to, including its hazards, appropriate first aid measures, and decontamination procedures. This step helps in understanding the specific threats the fumes may pose to the patient's health and safety, as well as the responder's safety.

In cases of exposure to hazardous substances, having detailed knowledge through the MSDS will guide proper management of the situation, ensuring that responders can take the most appropriate actions to mitigate harm to the patient. Subsequent actions, such as decontamination or even activating a Hazmat response, may depend on the insights gained from the MSDS.

Thus, starting with the MSDS empowers you to make informed decisions about the next steps in dealing with the patient's respiratory difficulty and any necessary interventions related to the chemical exposure.