Chemical Burn
What is a chemical burn?
Chemical burns are burns from lye, acids, or other tissue-damaging chemicals splashed on the skin. Most of these accidents cause only first-degree burns. They usually peel like a sunburn over the following week.
How is it treated?
Remove contaminated clothing and rinse off the exposed part of your child's body with clear water for 20 minutes, using the shower or tub. Don't rub the skin during this rinse. Don't apply any burn ointment because washing it off will cause pain. If the burned area is large, cover it loosely with a wet, clean sheet.
When should I call my child's health care provider?
Call immediately after you have followed the first aid treatment described above.
Written by B.D. Schmitt, M.D., author of "Your Child's Health," Bantam Books.
Published originally by McKesson Health Solutions LLC.
Adapted by Premier Care Pediatrics, PA.
Adapted by Premier Care Pediatrics, PA.
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to
change as new health information becomes available. The
information is intended to inform and educate and is not a
replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.