QUESTION: My partner had a bad accident and was burned with acid.
We weren't sure what to do, or what household chemicals could have been used to neutralize the acid, so we stuck his hand in ice, and rushed him to the hospital.
He is doing fine, but if it ever happens again, what can we use to reduce the damage?
ANSWER: Chemical burns caused either by acids or alkali are always serious and require prompt medical care.
But you don't have to be a chemist, seeking out a proper neutralizing agent, while precious time is passing, and the burn is deepening.
Just put the affected part under cool running tap water which will rapidly dilute any chemical.
Keep it up for at least 10 to 15 minutes for an acid burn, longer for alkali burns.
Average tap pressure is sufficient but keep it flowing while you are making preparations for transporting the victim to the nearest emergency room.
The cool water will also provide some relief from pain, and you can keep the injured portion wrapped in cool, wet cloths while getting to the hospital, unless you have the advantage of a well trained ambulance crew who may decide to start other appropriate treatments on the way.
The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician.
Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.
