6-19. DRESS THE BURNED AREAS
Apply dry sterile dressings over the entry and exit burned areas. The dressings
tails tight enough to hold the dressing in place, but not tight enough to put undue
pressure on the injury. Follow the general rules given in paragraph 6-12.
6-20. TREAT SHOCK AND EVACUATE THE CASUALTY
If signs and symptoms of hypovolemic shock are present, initiate an
intravenous infusion. Take other measures to control shock. Evacuate the casualty to
a medical treatment facility.
Section IV. TREATING CHEMICAL BURNS
6-21. IDENTIFY THE SOURCE OF THE CHEMICAL BURN
Chemical burns are caused by contact with either liquid or dry chemicals. Most
burns are caused by a reaction between the chemical and the casualty's body.
Examples of such chemicals include ammonia, caustic soda, quick-lime and white
phosphorus (WP). White phosphorus is a chemical used in marking rounds and
grenades that begins to give off heat and light when exposed to air.
NOTE:
Burns caused by blister agents are covered in Subcourse MD0534,
6-22. REMOVE CHEMICALS FROM THE SKIN
Chemicals that attack the skin will continue to burn the skin as long as the
chemical is in contact with the skin. Chemicals should be removed as soon as
possible.
a. Liquid Chemicals. If the burn is caused by a liquid chemical, pour as much
water as possible over the burned area. (This is called "flushing" the area.) Use cool
water from a canteen, Lyster bag, or water trailer if it is available. If a sufficient
amount of water is not available, use any nonflammable fluid to flush the area.
(1) Flush the area for at least 20 minutes. Flush longer if the chemical is
an alkali, such as caustic soda. Alkalies penetrate deeper and cause more severe
injuries.
(2) Do not delay flushing in order to remove the casualty's clothing.
Remove his clothing and jewelry while flushing the area.
MD0554
6-16