Chemical burn

Alternative names:

burn from chemicals

Definition:

Skin exposure to a chemical substance

Considerations:

Chemical exposure is not always obvious. Suspect chemical exposure if an otherwise healthy person becomes ill for no apparent reason, particularly if an empty chemical container is found nearby.

The cumulative effects of occupational exposure to chemicals over a prolonged period of time can cause changing symptoms as the chemical builds up in the victim's body.

If the victim has a chemical in the eye(s), see first aid for eye emergencies. If the victim has injected a drug, see first aid on drug abuse. If the victim has swallowed or inhaled a dangerous chemical, see first aid on poison.

Causes:

• skin contact with chemicals can cause either a local reaction or a systemic (overall body) reaction, or both