Texas Class A Barber Written ExamSanitation, Disinfection, and SafetyMedium
A barber inadvertently splashes a small amount of a chemical disinfectant onto their skin. The SDS for the disinfectant indicates that it is a corrosive substance. What is the immediate and most critical first aid action the barber should take?
- AApply a neutralizing cream to the affected area.
- BCover the affected area with a sterile bandage.
- CRinse the affected area with copious amounts of cool water for at least 15-20 minutes.
- DInduce vomiting if the chemical was ingested.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Rinse the affected area with copious amounts of cool water for at least 15-20 minutes.
For corrosive chemical splashes on the skin, the immediate and most critical action is to flush the affected area with large amounts of cool, running water for an extended period (15-20 minutes). This dilutes and washes away the chemical, minimizing tissue damage.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Applying a neutralizing cream is generally not recommended as it can generate heat and worsen the injury; flushing is paramount.
- B. Covering the area before adequate flushing would trap the chemical and exacerbate the burn.
- D. Inducing vomiting is for ingestion, not skin contact, and can be dangerous unless advised by poison control.
Chemical Skin Splash First Aid
Immediate and prolonged flushing of the affected skin area with copious amounts of cool, running water to dilute and remove corrosive or irritating chemicals.
- Duration: 15-20 minutes minimum.
- Remove contaminated clothing.
- Seek medical attention after flushing if irritation persists.
Memory trick: When chemicals touch, water is much!