Home|News|Parents|Entertainment|On Line Courses|Discussion Forum

 


Burns
Have you ever tried cooking? Surely it's fun but as long as you are not hurt by fire. But in case you are, you don't have to worry because your small safety guide leads you to have effective preventive measures. While we are providing information to treat burns, it is
equally important to highlight different types of burns so that an appropriate treatment could be arranged for.

Description About Burns:
Burns are classified into three types. This classification is based on the degree of harm a burn can cause. These are:

  • First degree burns
  • Second degree burns
  • Third degree burns and Chemical burns

    6.1- First Degree Burns
    First degree burns cause mild damage and affect only outer layer of skin. They may cause
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Pain

    What You Should Do
    1. Immediately submerge the affected part in cold water.
    2. Keep it under cold running water or place a cold wet towel on it till the pain decreases.
    3. Cover it with a dry, clean gauze dressing for protection.
    (Top)

6.2- Second Degree Burns
Second-degree burns are merciless and go through the second layer of the skin. These Cause

  • Blisters
  • Swelling
  • Extreme pain
  • Rough red skin

    What You Should Do
  • Immerse in cold water or have cold, wet cloths applied to it immediately.
  • Gently dry the blotted area. Do not rub. Rubbing may break the blister, opening it to infection.
  • Cover wound with dry, sterile bandage.
  • If burn is located on arm or leg, keep limb elevated as much as possible.
  • Second-degree burns take time in healing. They may take few weeks to recover completely.
    (Top)

6.3- Third Degree Burns
As the name suggests, third degree burns penetrate deep into the skin and cause greater damage. These burns however are less painful because they destroy nerve cells that can sense the pain. Whitish or burnt appearance is the symptom of third degree burn.

What You Should Do

  • Do not remove any clothing near or at the site of the burn
  • Do not apply cold water or medication to the burn.
  • Place clean, dry cloths (i.e. strips of a clean sheet) over the damaged area.
  • If burns are on arms or legs, keep the limbs elevated above the level of the heart.
  • If victim has burns on face, check frequently to make sure he is not having difficulty breathing.
  • Take patient to a hospital at once.
    (Top)

6.4- Chemical Burns
Chemicals such as acid cause such burns.

What You Should Do

  • Remove clothing on or near the burn area. Never pull clothing over the head with a chemical burn. You may need to cut the clothing.
  • Wash the area thoroughly with low-pressure water for at least 20 minutes.
  • Apply a clean dressing to the area.
  • Get medical attention as soon as possible.
    (Top)

    Back