Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

What type of chemical burn is generally considered more severe?

1. Acid

2. Alkali

3. Both are equally severe

4. Neither are severe

The correct answer is: Alkali

Alkali burns are generally considered more severe than acid burns due to the nature of their chemical interaction with body tissues. Alkalis can penetrate deeper into tissues and cause more extensive damage than acids. This is largely because alkalis tend to hydrolyze fats and proteins, which facilitates their absorption into the skin and underlying tissues. As a result, a chemical burn from an alkali can continue to cause damage after the initial exposure if not properly treated, potentially leading to complications such as necrosis. In practice, injuries from chemical burns are also informed by the specific chemical involved, concentration, and duration of exposure. While acids can certainly cause harm and result in serious injuries, their effects are usually more immediate and localized compared to alkalis, which can create ongoing issues and deeper tissue destruction. Therefore, alkali burns require swift medical intervention to mitigate further damage and treat the affected area effectively.