Which statement is NOT the recommended management for dry chemical burns?

Which statement is NOT the recommended management for dry chemical burns?

• A. Brush off the chemical and flush.
• B. Rinse with copious water for 15-20 minutes.
• C. Apply ointment.
• D. Cover with a dry dressing.

Answer: (B)

In dry chemical burns, the priority is to remove the chemical and dilute it quickly. Start by brushing off any loose dry chemical, then rinse the area with copious amounts of water for 15–20 minutes to wash away remaining residues and stop ongoing chemical reaction with the skin. The statement that should not be followed is applying ointment to the burn. Ointments can trap heat and moisture, potentially keep reactive chemicals in contact with tissue, and make it harder to assess the injury and monitor for changes. After thorough irrigation, pat the area dry and cover with a clean, dry dressing to protect the wound. If the burn is large, painful, or shows signs of deeper injury, seek medical care promptly.

In dry chemical burns, the priority is to remove the chemical and dilute it quickly. Start by brushing off any loose dry chemical, then rinse the area with copious amounts of water for 15–20 minutes to wash away remaining residues and stop ongoing chemical reaction with the skin. The statement that should not be followed is applying ointment to the burn. Ointments can trap heat and moisture, potentially keep reactive chemicals in contact with tissue, and make it harder to assess the injury and monitor for changes. After thorough irrigation, pat the area dry and cover with a clean, dry dressing to protect the wound. If the burn is large, painful, or shows signs of deeper injury, seek medical care promptly.