What should be done if a chemical burn has occurred?

In the event of a chemical burn, the most important initial response is to wash the affected area with a large volume of water. This is crucial because flushing the chemical off the skin can help to dilute and remove the harmful substance, minimizing further tissue damage and pain. Water serves to rinse away the chemical, which may continue to cause injury as long as it remains in contact with the skin.

The guidelines for managing chemical burns emphasize the significance of thorough irrigation. The volume of water is important, as a small amount may not effectively remove all the residual chemical, especially if it is a solid or has a strong adherence to the skin. Irrigation should continue for a sufficient amount of time—often recommended for at least 20 minutes or until emergency medical services (EMS) can take over.

Other methods of treating chemical burns, such as applying a dry dressing without rinsing or using ice packs, could exacerbate the injury. Covering the burn with a dry dressing without rinsing allows the chemical to remain in contact with the skin, potentially worsening the damage. Applying an ice pack can lead to further skin irritation and damage due to the extreme cold, which is not appropriate for burns. Leaving the area uncovered to air dry does not provide the necessary care to