There are three types of burns: first degree, second degree and third degree, depending on its penetration on the skin layer. First degree burn damages the outer layer of the skin, second degree burn goes to the second layer of the skin and a third degree burn goes 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.
1. Extinguish the fire immediately. If it is a flame burn, roll the victim on the ground and wrap with rags, blanket or coat.
2. Never apply butter, baking soda, ink or greasy ointments on a burn because they seal heat into the wound and may cause infection.
3. Remove, cut or tear off clothing near the burned area. If there are any tight clothing loosen them.
4. Apply ice pack or cloth soaked in ice water and change them constantly.
5. It is not recommended to wash the third degree burn.
6. Seek medical attention if the burn covers more than one part of the body, if it is caused by chemicals and is located in any sensitive area.
A burn is an injury that is caused by heat, cold, electricity, chemicals, light, radiation, or friction. It is variable in terms of the tissue affected, the severity, and resultant complications. Muscle, bone, blood vessel, nerves and tissue can all be damaged. Pain is due to profound injury to nerves. Depending on the location, degree of severity, a burn victim may experience potentially fatal complications such as:
• shock
• infection
• electrolyte imbalance
• respiratory distress
For minor burns
• Cool the burn.
• Cover the burn with a sterile gauze bandage
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever
Caution
• Don't use ice
• Don't apply butter or ointments to the burn.
• Don't break blisters
For major burns, call for emergency medical assistance. Until an emergency unit arrives, follow the steps:
1. Don't remove burnt clothing. However, do make sure the victim is no longer in contact with smoldering or exposed to smoke or heat.
2. Do no-t immerse large severe burns in cold water. Doing so could result to shock.
3. Check for signs of circulation (coughing, breathing, or movement).
4. Elevate the burned body part or parts
5. Cover the area of the burn. Use a moist, cool, sterile bandage; clean, moist cloth; or moist towels.
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