First Aid for Burns: Quick Steps to Relieve Pain & Prevent Damage
In this article, we'll go over the basics of first aid treatment for burns, including the different types of burns, the symptoms, and the appropriate steps to take to soothe the pain and prevent further damage.
So, whether you're a seasoned firefighter or just a regular Joe, it's important to know how to handle burns like a pro.
Don't be burned by ignorance, educate yourself and be prepared for any fiery situation.
Let's get started!
What is Burn?
A burn is an injury that affects the skin or other organic tissue and is primarily caused by various factors such as heat, radiation, radioactivity, electricity, friction, or chemical contact.
Thermal burns specifically occur when the skin or other tissues sustain damage from exposure to hot liquids, commonly referred to as scalds.
The severity of a burn can range from minor to life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention to prevent further damage and aid in the healing process.
The Different Degrees of Burns (first, second, third)
Burns are painful and uncomfortable. It's essential to know the different degrees of burns to understand how severe they can be.
1. First-degree burns are like bad sunburn, and we all know how uncomfortable that can be! They cause redness, swelling, and pain but typically heal within a few days without leaving a scar.
Applying some aloe vera can help soothe the affected area, and it's best to avoid touching it to prevent further irritation.
2. Second-degree burns are a bit more serious and cause blistering and thickening of the skin. These burns might take a couple of weeks to heal, and they can leave a scar.
It's like when you order a pizza that's too hot and end up regretting it for a while before eventually feeling better.
3. Third-degree burns, are the spiciest. They're the most severe and can cause the skin to appear charred or white. These burns are life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
It's like trying to eat the hottest pepper in the world - it might seem like a good idea at first, but it can end up being a disaster.
First Aid Treatment for Burns
Minor Burns:
- Cool the burn: Run cool (not cold) water over the burn for at least 10 minutes or apply a cold compress.
- Remove restrictive items: Take off jewelry or tight clothing near the burn area to prevent swelling complications.
- Dress the burn: Use a sterile dressing or clean cloth to cover the burn lightly.
- Apply antibiotic ointment: This helps prevent infection and promotes healing.
- Monitor for infection: Look for signs such as increased redness, swelling, or pus.
- Seek medical help: If the burn worsens or doesn’t heal properly, consult a healthcare professional.
First Aid Treatment for Electrical Burns
- Turn off the power source: Unplug the device, switch off the breaker, or call for professional help if unsure how to safely stop the electricity.
- Call emergency services: Electrical burns can cause internal injuries, so medical evaluation is necessary.
- Check for breathing and pulse: If the person is unresponsive, perform CPR if trained to do so.
- Cover the burn: Use a sterile dressing or clean cloth, avoiding adhesive bandages.
- Keep the person warm and calm: Shock can accompany electrical burns, so provide reassurance while waiting for medical help.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek medical help if:
- The burn covers a large area of the body.
- The burn penetrates deep into the skin.
- The burn causes blisters or charred skin.
- There is difficulty breathing or swallowing.
- The person loses consciousness.
Conclusion
- First-degree burns: Like sunburns, usually minor but can be painful.
- Second-degree burns: More serious, can blister, and may leave scars.
- Third-degree burns: Severe, require immediate medical attention.
For all burns, follow the basic first aid steps: cool the area, remove restrictive items, dress the wound, apply antibiotic ointment, and monitor for infection.
Electrical burns require turning off the power source and seeking medical attention immediately. If the burn is severe, always consult a healthcare professional.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION
What is first aid for burns caused by hot water?
The first step is to immediately cool the burn with cold running water for at least 10 minutes.
Then, cover the affected area with a sterile, non-adhesive dressing or cling film to protect it from infection.
Don't use ice, butter, or ointments on the burn as these can make it worse.
Seek medical attention if the burn is severe or covers a large area of the body.
Why should you cover a burn after cooling it?
Covering a burn with a sterile, non-adhesive dressing or cling film helps protect it from infection, reduces pain, and promotes faster healing.
It also helps to keep the wound moist, which can prevent scarring. Remember to change the dressing regularly, at least once a day, to ensure it stays clean and dry.
What should you put on a burn on your finger?
After cooling the burn with cold running water, apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel or a first aid burn cream.
Cover the burn with a sterile, non-adhesive dressing or cling film to protect it from infection and further damage.
Avoid using cotton balls or swabs, as these can stick to the wound and cause further pain.
How to treat burn blisters?
If the burn has developed blisters, do not pop them. Instead, leave them intact to protect the underlying skin from infection.
Cover the blister with a sterile, non-adhesive dressing or cling film and seek medical attention if the blister is large or covers a sensitive area of the body, such as the face or genitals.
What is the difference between a burn and a scald?
A burn is caused by dry heat, such as fire, while a scald is caused by wet heat, such as hot liquids or steam.
Scalds are more common in the kitchen, while burns are more common in industrial or outdoor settings.
The severity of both burns and scalds can range from mild to severe, depending on the length of exposure and the temperature of the heat source.
How to heal a burn fast?
Unfortunately, there is no quick fix for burns. However, you can speed up the healing process by following proper first aid procedures, keeping the wound clean and dry, and avoiding further injury.
If the burn is severe or covers a large area of the body, seek medical attention immediately.
Remember to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest to aid the healing process.
