Premergency First Aid, CPR and AED Manual

7 Bleeding, Wound Care and Trauma

Chemical burns Chemical burns can happen any time a toxic substance comes in contact with the body. Strong acids and alkali are the most common causes of chemical burns. The eyes are very vulnerable to chemical burns. Sometimes the fumes alone from strong chemicals can cause burns, especially to the airway and lungs. The severity of a chemical burn is directly related to the chemical type, the concentration of the chemical, and how long the patient is exposed. Be careful not to get any of the chemical, whether wet or dry, on your skin and clothing. Wear chemical resistant gloves and protective eyewear. Some chemicals require specific treatment. If possible, read any information available about the chemical. The chemical container or the material data sheet (MDS) will have information on first aid for exposure to that chemical.

Thermal Burns Assessment and First Aid Scene Assessment - Scene Safety Activate 911 / Get Help / Get First Aid Kit / Get AED Primary Assessment ABC’s - Treat life threat Carefully remove burned clothing & Cool the burn Hold the burned or scalded area under room temperature running water for about 20 minutes. Secondary Assessment • Cover the burn & Use a clean dry cloth or gauze dressing to lightly cover the burn • Treat injury, treat for shock • Position for comfort, loosen tight clothing • Reassure and keep calm Ongoing Care/Transport • Monitor LOC and ABCs Hand-Off and Documentation

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