Chemicals are very dangerous substances that can have untoward effects when used improperly or when they are involved in an accidental spill. Some chemicals may not cause instant harm but can cause many problems later on if not treated immediately. Anyone at any time can either come in contact with harmful chemicals or be involved in an accident involving chemicals. Knowing treat and care for a chemical burn can mean the difference between life and death.
Instructions
1. Ensure your safety. Your personal safety is crucial when you attempt to render aid to someone who has come in contact with a dangerous chemical. When you rush in without thinking, you take the risk of becoming a victim yourself. If you are the only person in the area, both the victim and you are now in danger--and no help is on the way.
2. Call 911. Before you do anything, call 911 immediately. The operator may be able to assist you in rendering first-aid safely and will have professional help on the way.
3. Attempt to determine what the chemical is. If the victim is conscious, ask him what was spilled and where. Ask if it is a dry powder or a liquid. If the victim is unconscious, try to determine this for yourself. If it appears that there is no physical trauma from a fall, move the victim out of the spill zone first. Render CPR and rescue breathing if you find no pulse or respirations.
4. Get some water flowing. The primary care for any chemical burn is to wash away the chemical from the person's body. If the chemical is a powder, brush off as much as possible before treating with water. If any clothing is involved, remove the article, being careful not to contaminate yourself as well.
5. Keep the water at a copious, but not harsh flow. The area should be flooded with water for at least 20 minutes, or until help arrives and takes over.
Tags: care chemical, care chemical burn, chemical burn, come contact, come contact with, contact with
