b'ChapterChemical BurnA chemical burn causes widespread tissue damage and can also result in potential absorbed poisoning. Strong corrosive substances are found in industry and at home. These include oven cleaner, dishwasher powder and general household cleaning products. In the event of an accident, try to identify the substance involved and advise medical personnel.How to RecogniseChemical containers nearby.Severe intense stinging pain.Blistering can develop with swelling anddiscolouration.Headache, blurred vision, nausea and sometimes vomiting. How to ManageMove the patient away from the area as there may be noxious fumes or gases.Avoid any direct contact with the chemical.I mmediately flood the area with largeamounts of cool running water for at least one hour or until the stinging subsides (use a hose if available). This helps to disperse, dilute and minimise burning. If the incident is in an industry environment, use protective gear such as heavy duty clothing and gloves.Remove contaminated clothing whileflooding the area.Cover burns with a dry preferablysterile non-adherent dressing.Call Ambulance 000. If available, refer to Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for specific treatment.Reassure and cover the patient.Closely monitor patient for response, airway, normal breathing whilewaiting for Ambulance.Do not attempt to neutralise acid or alkali burns because this will increase heat generation which may cause further tissue damage. Do not apply cling wrap or hydrogel dressings to chemical burns. 126 Burns and Scalds'