My suggestion would be to follow this [[Electronics Water Damage|this guide]] Personally I stay away from Rice (other than cooking) since uncooked rice will swell once it absorbs liquids. This could lead to a mess in dock connectors headphone jacks and all other tight areas. Once the device is opened and you follow the guide, it would be an unnecessary step. After you have accomplished that, change the battery (follow the above mentioned guide) and reevaluate your iPod. Good Luck