Which step is important when responding to pesticide on the skin?

The correct step when responding to pesticide on the skin involves washing hair and cleaning under the nails. This is important because pesticides can cling to hair and accumulate under fingernails, which might not be immediately apparent. These areas can trap residues that may continue to irritate the skin or pose health risks even after the initial exposure. Thoroughly cleaning these regions ensures that all potential pesticide remnants are effectively removed, reducing the risk of further skin irritation or systemic absorption of the chemicals.

Other options, such as covering the area with a bandage or using substances like vinegar or baby oil, may not address the main concern of removing all pesticide residues effectively. Bandaging the area could potentially trap pesticides against the skin, while substances like vinegar and baby oil are not recommended as effective means of decontamination in this context. Therefore, washing and cleaning is the primary way to ensure safety and minimize exposure to harmful chemicals.