RESUMEN
Background: Hydrofluoric acid and other fluorine compounds are used in different industries worldwide. Fluoride ion bonding with Calcium and Magnesium ions interferes with cell enzymatic systems and causes cell death. Any hesitation in diagnosis and treatment can lead to irreversible injuries in exposed individuals. Sectional study was conducted on 74 workers who had occupational
Material and Method: This cross exposure to Hydrofluoric acid. After dermal contamination, treatment procedures at the time of exposure and later in the medical center included decontamination with water, topical application of Calcium Gluconate Gel 2.5% and/or Benzalkonium Chloride solution. Workers and physicians were asked to fill in separate questionnaires providing data on the type and extent of burn and treatment procedures. Data were analyzed by descriptive and analytical methods in SPSS data bank
Results: 56 cases [75.7%] had carried out decontamination with water and 24 cases [32.4%] had applied Calcium Gluconate Gel immediately after exposure. In the clinic, treatment procedures included: decontamination for 46 cases [62.16%] and Calcium Gluconate Gel for 70 cases [94.59%]. More than 80% of burns were first degree at the time visited by physician and no complications observed in later follow-ups
Conclusion: It can be concluded that the initial washing with water and application of Calcium Gluconate Gel 2.5% at the time of exposure and later in the medical center is an effective and acceptable method in HF burn