Before applying a water gel burn dressing to a chemical burn, what must be done?

Before applying a water gel burn dressing to a chemical burn, what must be done?

• A. Flush with water
• B. Apply dressing directly
• C. Use hot water
• D. Consult medical staff

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is to remove the chemical as quickly as possible to stop ongoing damage. Flushing with plenty of cool running water dilutes and washes away the chemical residue from the skin, which is essential before anything else is applied. Do this for several minutes (often at least 20) and remove contaminated clothing if it can be done safely. Only after irrigation begins should you consider applying the water gel burn dressing, since placing dressings over unreached chemical can trap it and worsen injury. Using hot water would increase tissue damage, and while seeking medical advice is important, the immediate step is thorough irrigation.

The main idea here is to remove the chemical as quickly as possible to stop ongoing damage. Flushing with plenty of cool running water dilutes and washes away the chemical residue from the skin, which is essential before anything else is applied. Do this for several minutes (often at least 20) and remove contaminated clothing if it can be done safely. Only after irrigation begins should you consider applying the water gel burn dressing, since placing dressings over unreached chemical can trap it and worsen injury. Using hot water would increase tissue damage, and while seeking medical advice is important, the immediate step is thorough irrigation.