The first step when treating a patient with a dry chemical burn is to?

When treating a patient with a dry chemical burn, the first step is to brush away the chemical. This is crucial because it helps to remove any residual chemical substances from the skin before introducing water or any other treatment. If the chemical is washed away with water before it has been fully removed from the skin, it may react with the moisture, potentially causing further injury or spreading the burn.

By carefully brushing away the chemical, you minimize the risk of additional harm and prepare the area for subsequent care, such as irrigation with water. It is important to ensure the chemical does not linger on the skin to mitigate its damaging effects effectively. This approach also aligns with safety protocols for handling hazardous materials and first aid responses in emergency situations.