Burns

Types of Burns

• Thermal (heat) burns

• Chemical burns

• Electrical burns

© Scott Camazine/Photo Researchers, Inc.

Depth of Burns

• Depth (degree)– First-degree (superficial)– Second-degree (partial thickness)– Third-degree (full thickness)

First-Degree Burns (Superficial)• Redness

• Mild swelling

• Tenderness

• Pain

© Amy Walters/ShutterStock, Inc.

Second-Degree Burns(Partial Thickness)

• Blisters

• Swelling

• Weeping fluids

• Intense pain

© E. M. Singletary, M.D. Used with permission.

Third-Degree Burns(Full Thickness)

• Dead nerve endings

• Leathery, waxy skin

• Pearly gray or charred skin

Extent of Burns• Rule of the hand

– Victim’s hand equals 1% of body surface area.

• Which parts of body are burned?

• Other injuries or medical conditions?

• Is patient elderly or very young?

Care for First-Degree Burns

• Cool burn until pain free.

• Apply moisturizer such as aloe vera gel.

• Administer OTC pain reliever as needed (eg, ibuprofen).

Care for Small Second-Degree Burns

• Cool burn until pain free.

• Apply antibiotic ointment.

• Cover burn with dry, nonstick, sterile dressing.

• Administer OTC pain reliever as needed (eg, ibuprofen).

• Seek medical care.

Care for Large Second-Degree and Third-Degree Burns

• Remove jewelry and clothing not stuck to burn.

• Cover burn with dry, nonstick, sterile dressing.

• Care for shock.

• Call 9-1-1.

Chemical Burns

• Results from caustic or corrosive substance– Acids, alkalis, and

organic compounds

• Chemicals continue to burn as long as they are in contact with the skin; remove quickly.

Care for Chemical Burns

• Brush/flush skin to remove chemical.

• Remove contaminated clothing.

• Cover burn with dressing.

• Seek medical care.

Electrical Burns

• Thermal burn (flame)

• Arc burn (flash)

• True electrical injury (contact)

© Chuck Stewart, MD

Care for Electrical Burns

• Make the scene safe.– Unplug, disconnect, and turn off electricity.

• Check responsiveness and breathing.

• Provide CPR if needed.

• Care for shock.

• Call 9-1-1.