First aid for chemical burns

If a chemical burns the skin, follow these steps:

• 1) Remove the cause of the burn by flushing the chemicals off the skin surface with cool, running water for 20 minutes or more. If the burning chemical is a powder-like substance, such as lime, brush it off the skin before flushing.
• 2) Remove clothing or jewelry that has been contaminated by the chemical.
• 3) Apply a cool, wet cloth or towel to relieve pain.
• 4) Wrap the burned area loosely with a dry, sterile dressing or a clean cloth.
• 5) Rewash the burned area for several more minutes if the person experiences increased burning after the initial washing.

Minor chemical burns usually heal without further treatment.

Seek emergency medical assistance if:

• * The victim has signs of shock, such as fainting, pale complexion or breathing in a notably shallow manner.
• * The chemical burn penetrated through the first layer of skin, and the resulting second-degree burn covers an area more than 3 inches (7.5 centimeters) in diameter.
• * The chemical burn occurred on the eye, hands, feet, face, groin or buttocks, or over a major joint.
• * The victim has pain that cannot be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others).

The Disclaimer:

This information was collected and confirmed by Sino-aid’s First Aid and CPR Training instructor in Shanghai. It’s not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, emergency treatment or formal first aid training. Do not use this information to diagnose or develop a treatment plan for a health problem or disease without consulting a qualified health care provider. Please seek medical assistance immediately by call 120 to get help from Shanghai Medical Emergency Center at anytime if you are in emergency medical situation.