Different degrees of burns

Overview

A burn casualty will need different types of care depending on the kind and degree of his injury. Burns differ greatly from a common, fairly mild sunburn to a possibly deadly 3rd degree burn caused by open flames or electrocution. Here’s how to differentiate the three different categories of burn injuries and how to care for each:

• 1st-degree burns causes redness and some swelling of the skin.
  Treat a slight burn by first chilling the affected area. If possible, keep the wound underneath cool, running water for at least ten minutes. If running water is not accessible place the burn in a basin of cold water

  

  such as a container, tub or even a deep dish. Using a cool, damp compress made of hygienic cloth will also work if nothing else is accessible. Keeping the burn cool will decrease pain and reduce the swelling. If the wound is on the part of a body where jewelry or clothing is present, carefully get rid of them before it begins to swell. Smear a soothing lotion or Aloe Vera extract and bandage the burnt area with a loosely draped antiseptic gauze.

• 2nd-degree burns will result in deeper, more penetrating inflammation of the skin as well as puffiness and searing. This kind of burn should be treated just as a 1st-degree burn but because the injury to the skin is more widespread, extra precaution should be taken to avoid infection and extreme blemishing. Replace the dressing every day and keep the wound hygienic. If a blister bursts use mild soap and warm water to clean the region. Apply an antibiotic ointment such as Neosporin to avoid infection before redressing with an antiseptic gauze.

Close look on a 3rd degree burn

• 3rd-degree burns may seem and feel deceptively innocent as the casualty may not feel much discomfort due to complete damage of all layers of skin and flesh as well as nerve endings. The damaged region may seem scorched or ash-color and will immediately start to blister or “peel”. If the casualty’s clothing is on fire, soak him with non-flammable fluid. Dial 9-1-1. Do not get rid of burnt clothing from the casualty as this will uncover open wounds to the elements and possible infection. If possible, cover the casualty’s wounds with a damp sterile cloth to decrease the pain and inflammation. If you notice that the casualty is going into shock and loses consciousness, you will need to execute CPR.