Question

The nurse is caring for a patient who sustained chemical burns. What would have caused these injuries? Select all that apply.

1) Lime
2) Gasoline
3) Bleach
4) Fabric softener
5) Hydrofluoric acid

Answer 1

Chemical burns can be caused by substances such as lime, gasoline, bleach, fabric softener, and hydrofluoric acid, which damage skin cells leading to burns.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse is caring for a patient who sustained chemical burns. Chemical burns can be caused by various substances, some of which include:

• Lime: This is a caustic substance that can cause burns on contact with the skin.
• Gasoline: While primarily known as a fuel, gasoline can irritate the skin, although it's a less common cause of chemical burns.
• Bleach: Commonly found in household cleaning products, it contains strong oxidizing agents like sodium hypochlorite that can cause severe burns upon contact with skin or if inhaled as fumes.
• Fabric softener: Generally less corrosive, but some may contain chemicals that can irritate the skin or mucous membranes when used improperly.
• Hydrofluoric acid: A highly corrosive acid that can cause serious burns and is often used in industrial applications.

Exposure to these substances, especially in concentrated forms, can lead to the hydrolysis of proteins and lipids in the skin, resulting in cell death and tissue damage, manifesting as chemical burns. It's crucial for burn patients to receive prompt treatment, such as intravenous fluids and nutrients, to prevent complications like dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and infection.