The extent of the burn will indicate whether shock is likely to develop, as tissue fluid (serum) leaks from the burned area and is replenished by fluids from the circulatory system. The greater the extent of the burn, the more severe the shock will be. The cause of the burn may also signal any other possible complications. Burns also carry a serious risk of infection, which increases according to the size and depth of the burn. The body’s natural barrier, the skin, is destroyed by burning, leaving it exposed to germs.
Burns can be categorised as follows:
Superficial burns (First Degree)
These involve only the outer layer of the skin, and are characterised by redness, swelling and tenderness. Typical examples are mild sunburn, or a scald produced by a splash of hot tea or coffee. Superficial burns usually heal well if prompt first aid is given, and do not require medical treatment unless extensive.
Partial-thickness Burns (Second Degree)
These damage a ‘partial thickness’ of the skin, and require medical treatment. The skin looks raw, and blisters form. These burns usually heal well, but can be serious, if extensive. In adults, partial-thickness burns affecting more than 50% of the body’s surface can be fatal. This percentage is less in children and the elderly.
Full-thickness Burns (Third Degree)
These damage all layers of the skin. Damage may extend beyond the skin to affect nerves, muscle and fat. The skin may look pale, waxy, and sometimes charred. Full-thickness burns of any size always require immediate medical attention, and usually require specialist treatment.
Treatment of Minor Burns and Scalds
DO NOT use adhesive dressings.
DO NOT break blisters, or interfere with the injured area.
DO NOT apply lotions, ointments, creams, or fats to the injured area.
Cool the injured part with copious amounts of cold water for about 10 minutes to stop the burning and relieve the pain. If water is unavailable, any cold, harmless liquid such as milk or canned drinks will suffice.
Gently remove any jewellery, watches, or constricting clothing from the injured area before it starts to swell.
Cover the injury with a sterile dressing, or any clean, non-fluffy material to protect from infection. A clean plastic bag or kitchen film may be used.
Minor burns usually heal without further treatment.
If there is oozing,redness,pain or swelling seek medical help.
Burns can be categorised as follows:
Superficial burns (First Degree)
These involve only the outer layer of the skin, and are characterised by redness, swelling and tenderness. Typical examples are mild sunburn, or a scald produced by a splash of hot tea or coffee. Superficial burns usually heal well if prompt first aid is given, and do not require medical treatment unless extensive.
Partial-thickness Burns (Second Degree)
These damage a ‘partial thickness’ of the skin, and require medical treatment. The skin looks raw, and blisters form. These burns usually heal well, but can be serious, if extensive. In adults, partial-thickness burns affecting more than 50% of the body’s surface can be fatal. This percentage is less in children and the elderly.
Full-thickness Burns (Third Degree)
These damage all layers of the skin. Damage may extend beyond the skin to affect nerves, muscle and fat. The skin may look pale, waxy, and sometimes charred. Full-thickness burns of any size always require immediate medical attention, and usually require specialist treatment.
Treatment of Minor Burns and Scalds
DO NOT use adhesive dressings.
DO NOT break blisters, or interfere with the injured area.
DO NOT apply lotions, ointments, creams, or fats to the injured area.
Cool the injured part with copious amounts of cold water for about 10 minutes to stop the burning and relieve the pain. If water is unavailable, any cold, harmless liquid such as milk or canned drinks will suffice.
Gently remove any jewellery, watches, or constricting clothing from the injured area before it starts to swell.
Cover the injury with a sterile dressing, or any clean, non-fluffy material to protect from infection. A clean plastic bag or kitchen film may be used.
Minor burns usually heal without further treatment.
If there is oozing,redness,pain or swelling seek medical help.
No comments:
Post a Comment