What is the proper procedure for handling a chemical burn on a client?

The proper procedure for handling a chemical burn on a client is to rinse the affected area with cool water and seek medical help. This approach is optimal because it helps to dilute and wash away the chemical that caused the burn, thereby minimizing further damage to the skin. Cool water is crucial as it helps soothe the burn and reduces pain and irritation without causing additional harm, unlike ice, which might be too extreme and could lead to frostbite.

Seeking medical assistance is also essential. Chemical burns can be serious and might require professional evaluation and treatment, especially if the chemical is particularly harmful or if the burn covers a significant area of the body. Medical professionals are better equipped to manage the potential complications that can arise from chemical exposure.

In contrast, applying ointment and covering the area with a bandage may trap the chemical and worsen the situation. Using ice could provide initial pain relief, but it risks causing more damage to the skin due to extreme cold. Applying pressure is relevant in cases of bleeding but does not apply here, as chemical burns do not inherently involve bleeding, and the priority is to address the burn first.