- Expose body surfaces, brush off dry chemicals, and copiously irrigate with clean water. Large volume (>20L) serial irrigations may be needed to thoroughly cleanse the skin of residual agents. Do not attempt to neutralize any chemicals on the skin. Use personal protective equipment to minimize exposure of medical personnel to chemical agents. Resuscitation strategy and goals for patients with chemical burns are the same as for thermal injuries.
- White phosphorous fragments ignite when exposed to air. Clothing may contain white phosphorous residue and should be removed. Fragments embedded in the skin and soft tissue should be irrigated out if possible or kept covered with soaking wet saline dressings or hydrogels. Urgently retrieve deeply embedded fragments in the OR. Monitor calcium levels closely and treat hypocalcemia with IV replacement.
- Contact the Army Burn Center DSN 312-429-2876 (BURN) or (210) 916-2876 or (210) 222-2876 or Email to usarmy.jbsa.medcom-aisr.list.armyburncenter@health.mil.