Chemical Burns: Caring for Your Child
Chemical burns can occur when strong
acids or alkalis come into contact with the skin and the eyes. Burns can also occur
when a
child inhales or eats these substances.
Immediate care for chemical skin
exposure
-
If the chemical your child
has been exposed to is a dry or powdered chemical, gently wipe the powder from the
skin. Check the package for emergency advice.
-
For most exposures, remove
clothing and any jewelry. Rinse the exposed area right away with running water for
20 minutes. A hose is best. You may use a shower or faucet instead. Tissue damage
will continue as long as the chemical is in touch with the skin.
-
Note
: Don't use water to rinse dry lime
or elemental metals. These include sodium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorous,
lithium, cesium, or titanium. Water can react with these substances to form
dangerous byproducts.
-
Carefully remove any clothing
with the chemical on it. Be careful not to touch unaffected skin with clothing
that's being removed. Cut the clothing away, if needed.
-
If the chemical splashed into
your child's eyes, start rinsing their eyes right away. Call
911. Continue rinsing until medical help arrives.
If your child wears contact lenses, try to remove them.
-
Cover the exposed area
loosely with a dry, clean cloth.
-
Get medical care or dial
911
for emergency medical help. You can also call the poison control center at
800-222-1222.
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Chemical burns that look mild may cause severe deep tissue
injury. Always have your child examined by a healthcare provider as soon as
possible, no matter how mild the injury seems.