What is a common treatment for chemical burns?

Flushing a chemical burn with water is a critical treatment step because it helps to dilute and remove the harmful substance from the skin, which is essential in minimizing tissue damage and preventing further injury. Immediate and thorough irrigation with water for at least 10 to 20 minutes is recommended for most chemical burns, as it can help to stop the burning process and mitigate complications.

This approach is especially vital because chemical burns can cause ongoing damage as long as the chemical is present on the skin. By flushing the area, the chemical substance is effectively washed away, reducing contact time with the skin and decreasing the severity of the burn.

Other methods, such as applying ice, using ointments, or leaving the area dry to heal, are not appropriate for treating chemical burns. Ice can cause additional tissue damage due to prolonged cold exposure, ointments can trap the chemical in the skin, and leaving a burn dry does not address the crucial need to remove the irritant to prevent further injury.