Burns and Scalds

Burns are caused by contact with heat sources such as hot metal, chemicals or electricity. Scalds are caused by contact with steam or hot liquid. Burns are classified as: superficial (only the top layer of the skin is affected); partial thickness (injury involves the deep layer of skin); full thickness (damage involves the skin and deep tissues). The amount of pain felt is not a true guide to the severity of the injury because superficial and partial thickness burn in which the nerve endings would be destroyed.

The victim may complain of:

• Severe pain / no pain (refer above)

• Cold, clammy skin

• Nausea and / or vomiting

Look for:

• Black or red skin, which may be blistered

• Swelling

• Clear fluid oozing from the skin

What you should do:

• Cool the burn or scald at once with cold running water from the nearest tap. If clothing has stuck to the skin, do not try to remove it but cut around the parts which are sticking. Remove all jewelry from the burned area including watches, rings or other items which may have been trapped by swelling.

• Continue cooling for up to 20 minutes. Try to keep the stream of water close to the injury site to avoid causing the victim further pain.

• Cover the burned area with a sterile non-stick dressing. Apply a light cotton bandage to hold the dressing in place.

• If a sterile dressing is unavailable, use a clean sheet or pillow case or other non-fluffy, clean fabric. Covering the burn will reduce the risk of infection. If the burn is on arm, support the injured area with the other arm or rest the arm on a pillow.

• While waiting for transport keep the victim lying down, with the legs raised on a blanket or a pillow to reduce shock. Avoid giving her any food or drink, unless the burn is very small, in case an anesthetic is required.

Important Note:

• Seek medical advice, or if the burned or scalded skin covers an area greater than the victim’s own palm, call for an ambulance.