Which statement is true regarding chemical burns from alkali or reactive metals (sodium, potassium, calcium, lithium)?

Which statement is true regarding chemical burns from alkali or reactive metals (sodium, potassium, calcium, lithium)?

• A. Water is preferred over mineral oil for irrigation
• B. Mineral oil is preferred over water for irrigation
• C. Soap is preferred over oil
• D. Saltwater is preferred

Answer: (B)

When alkalis or reactive metals stay on the skin, the injury isn’t just chemical; the metal itself can react with moisture to produce heat and hydrogen, making the burn worse. The safest initial approach is to minimize contact with water while you remove any metal fragments and protect the area. Mineral oil provides a nonreactive barrier that prevents further moisture-metal interaction, reducing the risk of a vigorous exothermic reaction. Once the metal fragments are removed or stabilized, you can proceed with thorough irrigation to dilute and wash away alkali residues. Saltwater isn’t preferred because the salt adds osmotic and tissue stress, and soap isn’t protective in this context. So, using mineral oil initially to cover the contamination is the best approach.

When alkalis or reactive metals stay on the skin, the injury isn’t just chemical; the metal itself can react with moisture to produce heat and hydrogen, making the burn worse. The safest initial approach is to minimize contact with water while you remove any metal fragments and protect the area. Mineral oil provides a nonreactive barrier that prevents further moisture-metal interaction, reducing the risk of a vigorous exothermic reaction. Once the metal fragments are removed or stabilized, you can proceed with thorough irrigation to dilute and wash away alkali residues. Saltwater isn’t preferred because the salt adds osmotic and tissue stress, and soap isn’t protective in this context. So, using mineral oil initially to cover the contamination is the best approach.