1 Cool burn
3Dress burn
2Expose injury
4 Monitor wound
SEVERE BURNS • SMALL BURNS AND SCALDS
Minor burns and scalds
49
A burn that damages only the outer layer of the skin or affects a relatively small area is a minor burn or scald. Although such burns can be red and painful and may swell and blister, most heal well within a few days if treated promptly. Your aims are to cool the burn and to cover it with a sterile wound dressing to minimize the risk of infection.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
• Red and painful skin
• Blisters dripping clear fluid
TREATING MINOR BURNS AND SCALDS
1 Cool burn
• Pour cool water over the injured area for at least 10 minutes.
• If there is no water, use cold milk or a canned drink to cool the burn.
3Dress burn
• Cover the burn with a sterile wound dressing or clean nonfluffy material.
• Wrap a bandage loosely over the dressing to secure it( p. 61).
Wear gloves to reduce risk of infection
Cool the burn with water
2Expose injury
• Gently remove any clothing, shoes, belts, or jewelry near the burn before the area starts to swell and blister.
• Do not remove anything that is stuck to the burn because this could worsen the injury.
4 Monitor wound
• Check the wound daily for any signs of infection, such as pain, swelling, redness, or pus.
• If you suspect that it has become infected, advise the victim to see a doctor at once.
! Important
• Do not apply anything other than cool liquid to the burn.
• Do not touch the burn or burst any blisters.
• Do not put ice or iced water on the burn.