What immediate action should be taken for a patient with chemical burns?

Flushing the affected area with copious amounts of water is the correct immediate action for treating chemical burns. This step is critical because it helps to dilute and remove the chemical substance from the skin, reducing the extent of tissue damage. Chemical burns can continue to cause injury as long as the harmful substance remains in contact with the skin. Therefore, thorough irrigation with water should be done as soon as possible, ideally within minutes of exposure.

This action not only helps to mitigate the chemical's effects but also can reduce the severity of the burn and the patient's pain. Depending on the chemical involved, there may also be specific guidelines for rinsing, but the general principle of flushing with water remains a standard practice in burn management.

Other treatment options listed are not prioritized for the immediate care of chemical burns. For instance, applying a topical antibiotic or covering the area with a sterile dressing may be appropriate in subsequent stages of treatment but should not be the first steps after a chemical burn occurs. Applying ice can further damage the tissue and is typically not recommended for burn injuries, as it can lead to additional harm. Thus, flushing with water is the most effective first response in these cases.