In the event of skin contamination from poisoning or overdose, what is the initial BLS step?

• A. Brush off dry chemicals
• B. Remove clothes
• C. Flush with copious water
• D. Apply soap and scrub

Answer: (B)

Removing contaminated clothing is the first move because it immediately cuts off ongoing skin contact with the chemical, reducing dermal absorption and limiting secondary exposure to others. By getting rid of the substance that’s in contact with the skin, you set up a safer surface for subsequent decontamination, typically followed by thorough irrigation with water to wash away what remains. Scrubbing with soap or rubbing the skin can spread the contaminant and worsen irritation, and brushing off dry chemicals can aerosolize or spread residues. So the top priority is to lift the exposure by removing the contaminated clothing before initiating rinsing and other steps.