A factory worker presents to the emergency department after being splashed on the arm with a large amount of an unknown dry chemical powder. What is the nurse's priority action?
Immediately begin irrigating the affected arm with sterile saline.
Brush the powder off the skin using a gloved hand or cloth.
Request a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the chemical.
The priority action is to remove the chemical agent. For dry chemical powders, this should be done by brushing the substance off the skin first. Irrigating with water before removing the bulk of the powder can create a caustic solution with certain chemicals, worsening the burn. While identifying the chemical via a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is important for definitive treatment, immediate decontamination by physically removing the substance is the priority to prevent further injury. Applying creams or ointments is contraindicated as this can trap the chemical against the skin.
Ask Bash
Bash is our AI bot, trained to help you pass your exam. AI Generated Content may display inaccurate information, always double-check anything important.
Why is it important to brush off dry chemical powders instead of immediately irrigating with water?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
What is a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), and how is it used in chemical exposure cases?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
Why is applying ointments or creams contraindicated in chemical burns?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
BCEN CEN
Environment and Toxicology Emergencies, and Communicable Diseases
Your Score:
Report Issue
Bash, the Crucial Exams Chat Bot
AI Bot
Loading...
Loading...
Loading...
Pass with Confidence.
Nursing and Medical Assistants Package
You have hit the limits of our free tier, become a Premium Member today for unlimited access.
Military, Healthcare worker, Gov. employee or Teacher? See if you qualify for a Community Discount.
Monthly
$9.99
$9.99/mo
Billed monthly, Cancel any time.
3 Month Pass
$14.99
$4.99/mo
One time purchase of $14.99, Does not auto-renew.
BEST DEAL
Lifetime Pass
$29.99
One time purchase, Good for life.
What You Get
All Nursing and Medical Assistants Package plans include the following perks and exams .