An employee who was exposed to an unknown dry chemical has a chemical burn. Which intervention should be included in the plan of care?

An employee who was exposed to an unknown dry chemical has a chemical burn. Which intervention should be included in the plan of care?

• A. Irrigate the affected area with running water
• B. Wash the affected area with antibacterial soap
• C. Brush the chemical off the skin and clothing
• D. Leave the clothing in place until emergency personnel arrive

Answer: (C)

When dry chemical contacts the skin, the priority is to remove the chemical before applying water. Dry powders can continue to irritate the skin or react with moisture, so brushing the chemical off along with any contaminated clothing minimizes ongoing exposure and reduces tissue damage. After most of the chemical has been removed, flood the area with copious water to dilute and wash away any remaining residue. Do this gently and avoid rubbing hard, which can worsen injury. Removing contaminated clothing promptly is also important to prevent further contact. Irrigating first or washing with soap isn’t as effective for decontaminating dry chemical exposure, and leaving clothing on would keep the chemical in contact with the skin and delay care.

When dry chemical contacts the skin, the priority is to remove the chemical before applying water. Dry powders can continue to irritate the skin or react with moisture, so brushing the chemical off along with any contaminated clothing minimizes ongoing exposure and reduces tissue damage. After most of the chemical has been removed, flood the area with copious water to dilute and wash away any remaining residue. Do this gently and avoid rubbing hard, which can worsen injury. Removing contaminated clothing promptly is also important to prevent further contact. Irrigating first or washing with soap isn’t as effective for decontaminating dry chemical exposure, and leaving clothing on would keep the chemical in contact with the skin and delay care.