Treat Chemical Burns According To Their Severity
Chemical burns occur when an irritating agent has come into contact with the skin and/or mucus membranes such as the mouth or eyes. The esophagus and lungs can also be burned by airborne chemicals. These burns are often associated with the workplace, but can also occur in the home as well. Household chemical burns are caused by cleaning fluids, bleach, oven or toilet cleaners, or concrete mix. It is even possible for products used for personal care, such as hair dyes and fingernail polish remover can result in burns. Industry probably accounts for most of the chemical burns experienced as a wide range of corrosives, both acidic and base, are used in a number of processes, especially those in the production of metals and chemicals. Unlike most burns, chemical burns need no outside source of heat to produce damage and can penetrate through several layers of skin (which can remain intact and look seemingly unharmed) to reach interior tissues. Most chemical burns cause pain and a burning sensation.
First Aid For Skin Surface Chemical Burns
While not all chemical burns will necessitate a call to 911, you should be aware that all of these burns should be seen at a doctor’s office or outpatient clinic. Because of the ability of many chemicals to enter the body through the skin, consultation with a medical professional is advised to make certain that no interior tissue damage has occurred.
The first thing to do when a chemical burn has occurred is to remove any clothing involved to prevent further contamination. Flush the area with water for at least 20 minutes, but do not scrub the skin as this can force more of the chemical into the person. If the chemical is dry, first brush as much away with a soft rag. In all cases when dealing with a chemical burn, do not allow any of the chemical, or the runoff, to get onto your skin. Cover the burn with a clean cloth. Generally, a minor chemical burn will cause no further irritation, but if it is still painful after a short period of time, flush the burn with water again.
When Chemical Burns Will Need Emergency Care
A chemical burn that has destroyed the topmost layer of the skin must receive emergency medical care. Likewise, any burn to the eyes, face, hands, groin, or feet will need more care than can be provided at home, but use first aid while waiting for treatment. Someone who has swallowed a chemical will require emergency treatment. Any burn, no matter what size, that produces a high degree of pain requires a trip to the emergency room.
Some chemicals, especially if they have been inhaled or swallowed, will produce fainting, irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, or shortness of breath. These are all conditions that will require emergency medical care.
Chemical Burns To Eye
Although getting any kind of chemical into the eye means that emergency care is necessary (call 911 right away), begin flushing the eye immediately should any chemical get into it. It is best to get into the shower and simply let the water run into the affected eye or eyes, but if this is not possible, pour tepid water over the eye, being careful not to get it into the eye that has not been damaged. A child’s head can be held over a sink and tepid water can be poured over the injured eye. If both eyes have been affected by the chemical, pour the water so that it hits between the eyes and cleanses both at once. Continue flushing the eyes for 20 minutes or until medical assistance is available. Most workplaces have eyewash stations, so if you are employed in such a place, make sure that you know where the station is located.
Severe Reactions
In some cases, a person will suffer a severe reaction to a chemical burn, especially if the chemical has been ingested or inhaled. Convulsions may ensue, and if they do put the person on their back, place a pillow beneath the head, and turn the head to the side in case of vomiting. This person will not swallow their tongue, so do not place anything in the mouth.
Shock is another severe reaction that can occur when chemicals are present. Should the person be pale, sweating, be nauseated, or exhibit any of the other signs of shock, place them on the floor, elevate the feet, cover with a blanket and wait for emergency personnel. In some cases, shock will cause cardiac arrest, and if this happens, begin CPR immediately.
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