How should you deal with chemical burns?

How should you deal with chemical burns?

• A. Apply ointment immediately
• B. Remove liquid chemicals by flushing with water
• C. Cover with bandages and transport
• D. Ignore them until medical help arrives

Answer: (B)

Flushing chemical burns with water is the appropriate response because it effectively dilutes and removes the chemical agent that caused the burn. This immediate action helps to minimize tissue damage and prevent further injury. Rinsing the affected area under running water for an extended period (typically at least 15-20 minutes) is crucial to ensure that any residual chemicals are flushed away, which can significantly reduce the severity of the burn. Applying ointment immediately is not advisable because ointments could trap the chemical against the skin, leading to increased irritation and potential worsening of the injury. Covering the burn with bandages and transporting the person without first addressing the chemical exposure does not remove the harmful agent and could exacerbate the injury. Ignoring the burns until medical help arrives is also dangerous, as immediate action to rinse the chemical is critical in minimizing harm.

Flushing chemical burns with water is the appropriate response because it effectively dilutes and removes the chemical agent that caused the burn. This immediate action helps to minimize tissue damage and prevent further injury. Rinsing the affected area under running water for an extended period (typically at least 15-20 minutes) is crucial to ensure that any residual chemicals are flushed away, which can significantly reduce the severity of the burn.

Applying ointment immediately is not advisable because ointments could trap the chemical against the skin, leading to increased irritation and potential worsening of the injury. Covering the burn with bandages and transporting the person without first addressing the chemical exposure does not remove the harmful agent and could exacerbate the injury. Ignoring the burns until medical help arrives is also dangerous, as immediate action to rinse the chemical is critical in minimizing harm.