AEMCA Practice Exam

For an unknown chemical burn, how long should irrigation be performed?

1. 10 minutes

2. 15 minutes

3. 20 minutes minimum

4. 30 minutes

The correct answer is: 20 minutes minimum

Irrigation of a chemical burn is a critical intervention aimed at reducing tissue damage and preventing further harm from the chemical agent. The recommended duration for irrigation in the case of an unknown chemical burn is a minimum of 20 minutes. This duration is supported by clinical guidelines which emphasize that longer irrigation substantially improves the likelihood of reducing chemical concentration on the skin and preventing deeper injury. During the first 20 minutes, substantial flushing of the affected area can help remove the chemical substance, significantly mitigating the effects of the burn. The rationale for this duration is based on the need to ensure that the chemical is effectively diluted and washed away from the skin, which becomes increasingly important if the precise nature of the chemical is not known. Hence, this is why the correct answer highlights a minimum of 20 minutes as an essential practice in managing such injuries effectively.