Which method should be used to flush a patient's skin contaminated with a toxin?

Flushing a patient's skin contaminated with a toxin should be done using clean water. This method is effective because it helps to dilute and wash away the toxic substance, reducing the risk of further absorption into the skin. Clean water is readily available and non-irritating, making it the preferred choice for decontaminating the skin in emergency situations.

Using soap and water can be useful in some cases, but it might not be appropriate for all types of toxins, as certain contaminants could react negatively with soaps or detergents. Creams or ointments may inadvertently trap the toxin against the skin or cause additional irritation, which is why they are not recommended for initial decontamination. Alcohol wipes can also irritate the skin and are not effective for removing many types of contaminants. Thus, clean water remains the safest and most effective method to flush away toxins from the skin.