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First
Aid
Burns
Burns are of 3 types first
degree, second degree and third degree, depending on its penetration of the layers
of the skin. First degree burn damages the outer layer of the skin, second
degree burn go through the second layer of the skin and the third degree burn
go through the third layer of the skin which is less painful but destroys the
nerve cells in the affected tissue hence the damage will be greater.
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Try to put off the fire as soon as possible. If it is a flame
burn, roll the victim on the ground and wrap with rugs, blanket or coat.
In the case of chemical burn, keep burnt area under low pressure of water
till the burning subsides.
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Never apply butter,
gention violet, Ink, baking soda or greasy ointments on a burn. They seal heat
into the wound and may cause infection.
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Loosen
all the tight clothing and remove clothing on or near the burnt area. If it is
over the burnt area do not try to peel it loose.
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Avoid
undue contamination of burn wound and keep the victim in comfort draping him in
clean laundry sheets.
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Apply ice pack or cloth soaked
in ice water and change them constantly.
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It is not recommended
to wash the burn if it is a third degree burn.
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Seek
medical attention immediately if the burn covers more than one part of the body,
if it is a third degree burn or caused by chemicals and is located on any sensitive
area.
First degree burns
First degree burns
damage the outer layer of skin.
CHARACTERISTICS:
1. redness
2. mild pain
3. swelling
TREATMENT:
1. Immediately submerge the affected part in cold water.
2. Hold it under cold running water, or place cold, wet cloths on it until the pain decreases.
3. Cover with a clean, dry gauze dressing for protection.
Second degree burns
Second degree burns go through to the second layer of skin.
CHARACTERISTICS:
1. blisters
2. rough, red skin
3. swelling
4. extreme pain
TREATMENT:
1. Immerse in cold water or have cold, wet cloths applied to it immediately.
2. Gently blot area dry. Do not rub. Rubbing may break the blister, opening it to infection.
3. Cover wound with dry, sterile bandage.
4. If burn is located on arm or leg, keep limb elevated as much as possible.
Second degree burns should heal within a few weeks.
Third degree burns
Third
degree burns are less painful than second degree burns because the nerve cells in the affected tissue are actually destroyed, but the damage is greater. The burn goes through to the third layer of skin.
CHARACTERISTICS:
whitish or charred appearance
TREATMENT:
1. Do not remove any clothing near or at the site of the burn
2. Do not apply cold water or medication to the burn.
3. Place clean, dry cloths (i.e. strips of a clean sheet) over the damaged area.
4. If burns are on arms or legs, keep the limbs elevated above the level of the heart.
5. If victim has burns on face, check frequently to make sure he is not having difficulty breathing.
6. Get victim to a hospital at once.
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