Burns and Scalds

Burns are injuries to body tissues caused by heat, chemicals or radiation. Scalds are caused by wet heat, such as steam or hot liquids. Burns are classified according to the area and depth of injury: superficial burns involve only the outer layers of the skin, cause redness, swelling, tenderness and usually heal well. Intermediate burns form blisters, can become infected, and need medical aid. Deep burns involve all layers of the skin, which may be pale and charred, may be pain free if nerves are damaged, and will always require medical attention.

Severe Burns and Scalds
Treatment:

* Lay the casualty down and make him as comfortable as possible, protecting burn area from ground contact.

* Gently remove any rings, watches, belts or constricting clothing from the injured area before it begins to swell.

* Cover the injured area loosely with sterile unmedicated dressing or similar non-fluffy material and bandage. DO NOT remove anything that is sticking to the burn. DO NOT apply lotions, ointments or fat to the injury. DO NOT break blisters or otherwise interfere with the injured area.

* If breathing and heartbeat stop, begin resuscitation immediately,

* If casualty is unconscious but breathing normally, place in the recovery position.

* To minimize shock.  Send for medical attention.

Minor Burns and Scalds
Treatment:

* Place the injured part under slowly running water, or soak in cold water for ten minutes or as long as pain persists.

* Gently remove any rings, watches, belts, and shoes from the injured area before it starts to swell.

* Dress with clean, sterile, non-fluffy material. DO NOT use adhesive dressings. DO NOT apply lotions, ointments or fat to burn/ scald.DO NOT break blisters or otherwise interfere.

* If in doubt, seek medical aid.

Chemical Burns
Treatment:

* Flood the area with slowly running water for at least ten minutes.

* Gently remove contaminated clothing while flooding injured area, taking care not to contaminate yourself.

* Continue treatment for SEVERE BURNS

* Remove to hospital.

Sunburn
Treatment:

* Remove the casualty to the shade and cool the skin by sponging gently with cold water.

* Give sips of cold water at frequent intervals.

* If the burns are mild, gently apply an after sun cream. For extensive blistering, seek medical help.

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These files may be accessed through the web at http://firstaid.ie.eu.org/

I would like to thank the IEASR for allowing me to convert their pages over to the Pilot.

Gordon Thomas
#admin@dogpatch.org (Remove the # character in order to e-mail.)
http://www.dogpatch.org

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DISCLAIMER:
Information in these files is presented in order to impart  general information relating to first aid of various injuries and conditions. Such information is not  complete and should not be used as a substitute for a consultation or visit with your physician or other health care provider, or as a substiture for actual training in first aid and/or CPR. While all reasonable care has been taken in compiling this information, Mary Jo Sminkey and Irish Emergency Ambulance Services Resource (IEASR) make no warranty as to the information's completeness, reliability or accuracy. Access to and use of the information contained herein is entirely at the risk of the user, Mary Jo Sminkey and IEASR shall not be liable, directly or indirectly to the user or any third party for any damage resulting from the use of the information contained or implied in the Pilot First Aid files.