A 62-year-old female spilled an industrial cleaning liquid on her forearm; severe itching and redness; after flushing, before transport you should request a:

• A. Copy of the Safety Data Sheet for the liquid.
• B. Copy of the employer's OSHA 300 log.
• C. Coworker describe how the liquid reacted when water was applied.
• D. Coworker accompany her to the hospital.

Answer: (A)

When a patient has a chemical exposure, you need to know exactly what chemical you’re dealing with to apply the correct decontamination and first aid. The Safety Data Sheet for the liquid is the authoritative source that lists the product’s hazards, first aid measures, handling and decontamination guidelines, and any special precautions. With that information, you can verify whether continued irrigation is appropriate, if clothing should be removed, and whether there are any specific antidotes or monitoring needs. It also helps identify systemic risks and what to tell the hospital on transfer.

The OSHA 300 log is just a workplace injury record and doesn’t guide patient care. A coworker’s description of how the liquid reacts with water is unreliable, and having a coworker accompany the patient doesn’t provide the necessary safety or clinical guidance. Prioritizing the Safety Data Sheet ensures you have accurate, product-specific instructions for safe and effective management before transport.