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How
to treat a burn
Burns are classified by agent and degree.
- The agent of a burn refers to what caused the burn.
- The degree of a burn refers to its severity.
Burn Agents
Thermal - fire, heat, steam, hot liquids, or hot objects.
Chemical - acids, bases, and caustic material.
Electricity - AC current, DC current, lightning.
Light - intense light sources, ultraviolet light, sunlight.
Radiation - radioactive materials.
Degree
First Degree
Characterized by red skin and sometimes swelling. The pain may
be severe. The burn will usually heal without scaring.
Second Degree
The skin will appear red, blisters and swelling occur with 48
hours. Pain is intense. Scaring may occur. The risk of infection
is high.
Third Degree
The skin will appear red, usually with charring. Pain is severe
unless nerves have been damaged. In that case, pain is only
at the periphery of the burn. This type of burn requires skin
grafting, and will heal with dense scars. Infection is a major
concern.
First Aid for Burns
Fire
Wet or smother the burn. Remove smoldering clothing ONLY if
it is not stuck to the skin.
Tar,Grease,Wax
Cool with water, do not try to remove substance from the burn.
Electrical
Remove person from current. An electric shock victim may need
mouth to mouth resuscitation or CPR.
Chemical
Rinse the burn with a lot of water for at least 20 minutes.
Dry Lime
Do not rinse dry lime. Brush from skin and clothing.
Remember
- Immediately transport the person to a medical facility
or Call 911
- NEVER put ice on a burn.
- Do not put anything but water on a burn.
- Carefully remove clothing or jewelry that may constrict
during swelling. Do not remove clothing that is stuck to
the burn.
You can help medical professionals by providing the following
information:
- What happened and where?
- Exactly what caused the burn?
- How long the person was subjected to the burn substance?
- How long it has been since the person was removed from
the burn substance?
- What is the age of the person and what medical conditions
do they have?
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