In case of a chemical exposure, what is the immediate action an EMT should take?

In cases of chemical exposure, the immediate action an EMT should take involves removing the patient's clothing. This is critical because clothing may have absorbed the chemical and can continue to cause harm through skin contact. By removing the clothing promptly, EMTs minimize the patient's exposure to the hazardous substance, which is essential for preventing further injury.

While other actions, such as notifying hospital staff or administering activated charcoal, may be relevant at different stages of patient care, they are not the immediate priorities. Hydration can also be important in managing chemical exposure, but it should not take precedence over removing contaminated clothing to stop the exposure. Thus, prioritizing the removal of clothing is a vital step in the initial response to ensure the safety and health of the patient affected by chemical exposure.