> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://handbook.teddwa.xyz/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://handbook.teddwa.xyz/burns/chemical-and-electrical-burns.md).

# Chemical and electrical burns

Decontaminate safely, identify hidden injury, and arrange urgent assessment.

### Chemical burns

1. Protect yourself from the chemical.
2. Remove contaminated clothing and dry powder chemicals before flushing.
3. Flush the affected skin with copious cool running water for at least 20 minutes.

Do not try to neutralize a chemical. Do not delay irrigation while identifying the product.

If the eyes are affected, flush continuously with clean water. Hold the eyelids open if possible. Avoid contaminating the unaffected eye.

### Electrical burns

Do not touch the patient until the power source is isolated. High voltage exposure requires emergency services.

Electrical injury can cause internal damage despite a small skin wound. Check for entry and exit burns, altered consciousness, chest pain, irregular pulse, or muscle pain.

### Transport

All electrical injuries and significant chemical exposures need urgent medical assessment. Continue to monitor airway, breathing, circulation, and mental status.

For significant exposure, establish IV or IO access. Treat severe pain with fentanyl, morphine, or ketamine when appropriate.

Apply cardiac monitoring for electrical injury. Obtain a 12 lead ECG for chest pain, altered consciousness, abnormal pulse, or high voltage exposure.


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