What is the proper care for a chemical burn on the skin?

What is the proper care for a chemical burn on the skin?

• A. Wipe with soap only.
• B. Break blisters and squeeze.
• C. Immediately flush with clean running water for several minutes to remove the chemical agent, then cover with a clean dressing.
• D. Apply ointment and wrap tightly.

Answer: (C)

The key idea is to stop the chemical from continuing to injure the skin by removing it as quickly as possible, then protect the area. Rinse the burn with clean running water for several minutes to wash away the chemical agent and dilute any residue. This immediate irrigation reduces tissue damage and pain. After flushing, cover the area with a clean dressing to shield it from infection and further irritation. Wiping with soap alone won’t reliably remove the chemical and may leave residues; breaking blisters and squeezing increases infection risk; applying ointment and wrapping tightly can trap chemicals and complicate evaluation and healing. If possible, remove contaminated clothing or jewelry, and seek medical care if the burn is large or involves a sensitive area, or if you’re unsure about the chemical involved.

The key idea is to stop the chemical from continuing to injure the skin by removing it as quickly as possible, then protect the area. Rinse the burn with clean running water for several minutes to wash away the chemical agent and dilute any residue. This immediate irrigation reduces tissue damage and pain. After flushing, cover the area with a clean dressing to shield it from infection and further irritation. Wiping with soap alone won’t reliably remove the chemical and may leave residues; breaking blisters and squeezing increases infection risk; applying ointment and wrapping tightly can trap chemicals and complicate evaluation and healing. If possible, remove contaminated clothing or jewelry, and seek medical care if the burn is large or involves a sensitive area, or if you’re unsure about the chemical involved.