What is the recommended immediate action for a chemical burn?

• A. Advise first responders of presence of chemical burn
• B. Submerge the burned area in water
• C. Apply wet barrier with occlusive dressing
• D. Remove jewelry from the burned area

Answer: (B)

Rapid decontamination is the first step in a chemical burn. The priority is to dilute and wash away the chemical from the skin to stop ongoing tissue damage. Submerging the burned area in clean water (or providing continuous irrigation with running water) achieves this by continuously diluting and removing the chemical as quickly as possible. Do this for as long as practical, typically at least 20 minutes, and remove contaminated clothing or jewelry as you’re flushing to prevent further exposure and to accommodate swelling.

After irrigation, avoid applying creams or dressings that seal in the chemical, and seek further medical care as needed. The other options don’t directly remove the chemical from the skin or can delay ongoing decontamination, which is why immediate irrigation is the best choice.