What to do if a chemical burns the skin?
Flush the chemicals off the skin with cool, running water for 20 minutes or more if needed. And if the chemical is powder or similar to it brush it off the skin before flushing it with water.
Remove anything contaminated by the chemical, such as clothing.
If the burning sensation increases after the initial washing, rewash the area for several more minutes.
To help reduce the pain, apply a cool, wet material to the skin.
Cover up the area affected with the chemical burn and wrap it loosely with a dry, sterile dressing or a clean cloth.
Most minor chemical burns usually heal without additional treatment.
When to seek emergency medical assistance?
There are signs of shock, e.g. fainting or breathing is affected.
The burn broke through the first layer of skin, resulting in a second-degree burn that covers more than 7.5 centimeters in diameter.
The chemical burn was to the eye, hands, feet, face, groin, buttocks or over a major joint.
Over-the-counter pain medications (Tylenol) cannot control the pain.
If you don't know if the substance is toxic, call the poison control center or the hospital. If you require emergency medical assistance, bring with you the chemical container or the full description of the material with you for classification.
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This information is provided by the NGHA Content Advisory Board and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your health care provider.