Burns : There are two types of burns which we are to discuss:
1) Chemical
2) Thermal
Chemical burns have already been discussed in Sec. 16.7; so we shall discuss thermal burns, i.e. bums due to high temperature. Two common thermal burn injuries are given below:
i) Dry burns from flames or from picking up hot glassware or metals.
ii) Scalds from steam, boiling water or other hot liquids.
Tissue damage results from direct contact with the source of heat. There is also considerable danger from shock which is directly related to the extent of the injury.
The aims of the first aid treatment of thermal burns are to reduce the local effects of heat, to relieve pain, to prevent infection of the affected area, to replace fluid loss and thereby reduce shock, and to remove a severely injured casualty to hospital as quickly as possible.
The procedure is as follows:
(1) Cool the injury as rapidly as possible and reduce pain by immersing the affected part in cold water or holding it under a running tap.
(2) Remove rings, bracelets, boots or anything else of a pressing nature before swelling occurs. Don't pull away clothing that has been burnt on to the skin.
(3) Cover the wound with a dry, sterile dressing.
(4) Give small cold drinks at frequent intervals to a badly burnt conscious casualty to counteract the effect of fluid loss; it must be made sure that operation is not necessary.
(5) Reassure the casualty.
(6) Badly burnt or scalded casualties must be taken to hospital as quickly as possible. Any injury in which more than 10% of the body surface is burnt is regarded as very severe and immediate hospital treatment is vital. For example, the surface area of your head or back represents about 1% of the total surface area of your body.
Do not prick any blisters which form, and do not touch the affected area as this can increase the risk of infection. For very minor burns, apply 'Burno17. If severe burns are there, do not apply lotions or ointment.