Which of the following is the route of exposure through the skin?

• A. Inhalation
• B. Absorption
• C. Injection
• D. Contamination

Answer: (B)

Absorption is the route through which substances enter the body via the skin. When a chemical or toxin contacts the skin, it can pass through the epidermis and into deeper tissues or the bloodstream, especially if the skin is damaged or the substance is lipid-soluble or highly concentrated. This is different from inhalation (entry through the lungs), or injection (entry via puncture or needle), or contamination (presence of hazard on the skin that may or may not have entered the body). In EMS, protecting against absorption is crucial—wear gloves and barrier protection, and if exposure occurs, decontaminate by removing contaminated clothing and washing the skin thoroughly with water.