How should you handle a chemical burn on soft tissue?

Flushing a chemical burn with copious amounts of water is the most effective and immediate treatment for minimizing injury to the affected soft tissue. This action serves multiple purposes: it dilutes the chemical agent, helps remove it from the skin, and reduces the potential for further tissue damage. The rapid removal of the chemical is critical because many substances can cause extensive damage if left in contact with the skin.

Promptly flushing the area ensures that the chemical does not continue to penetrate the skin, reducing complications like infection and deep tissue injury. The recommended duration for flushing is generally 15 to 20 minutes, or longer if the chemical is particularly hazardous. Additionally, if the chemical is known to be particularly harmful or if the burn is severe, seeking immediate medical attention is essential following decontamination.

Using ointments before flushing can trap the chemical against the skin, potentially worsening the burn, while covering it with a dry dressing could also retain the harmful agent. Leaving the area undisturbed for an extended period might allow the chemical to cause further injury. Therefore, initiating immediate and thorough irrigation is the best course of action in cases of chemical burns.