New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

What should be done with a burn from a chemical substance?

1. Immediately submerge in water

2. Brush off dry chemicals before rinsing

3. Cover the burn with a sterile bandage

4. Apply ice to reduce swelling

The correct answer is: Brush off dry chemicals before rinsing

When dealing with a burn caused by a chemical substance, it is crucial to first remove any residual chemical from the skin before any rinsing or further treatment is done. If the chemical is dry, brushing off or dusting away the substance prevents it from continuing to react with moisture, which could worsen the injury. Once the dry chemical is removed, the affected area can be rinsed with copious amounts of water to dilute and wash away any remaining chemical agents. This approach ensures that the chemical does not cause further damage or continue to exert harmful effects on the skin. Following this initial step, covering the burn with a sterile bandage might be appropriate in later stages, but immediate action focuses first on safely handling the chemical exposure. It’s essential not to use ice or very cold water, as this could exacerbate the injury and cause further tissue damage. Always prioritize the safe removal of harmful substances before moving on to treating the burn itself.