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Errors in assumptions and business practices that limit the success of a nurse consultant, and ways to avoid them, are described. Enthusiasm and dedication must be accompanied by a realistic understanding of the time commitment, financial resources, and objective decision making necessary to succeed. The nurse consultant must be able to identify potential client needs and promote services effectively to a target market. Improper pricing with undervalued services must be avoided. Even with a large client base, poor cash flow management, inadequate legal precautions, and lack of contingency planning are critical concerns. The pros and cons of various business forms, such as partnerships, are explored. Independent consulting can be satisfying and profitable with proper understanding of the pitfalls and how to avoid them., (Copyright 2013, SLACK Incorporated.)

1. Enthusiasm, dedication, and hard work will not guarantee success as an independent consultant. 2. Careful market research, selecting a venture that promises clients and profit, should be the basis for deciding to start a consultant business, not just enthusiasm and emotional drive. 3. Business management practices of developing a business plan, careful price setting, and managing cash flow are essential for business survival. 4. Legal considerations, including the form of the business, contracts, and essential recordkeeping, must not be overlooked.

An acute chemical exposure changes the rules normally followed when responding to emergencies. The time to decide how to handle a hazardous materials emergency is before the event occurs. Planning for hazardous materials specific to each facility is necessary to have the right personal protective equipment, decontamination setup, training, treatment protocols, chemical references, and antidotes. The victim may need to be rescued and decontaminated by equipped and trained hazardous materials responders. Rapid intervention with the appropriate physiological antagonists, decontamination, supportive care, and monitoring for delayed onset of toxic effects are critical to optimum employee care.