Burns are a type of soft tissue injury caused primarily by heat; they can also occur when the body is exposed to certain chemicals, extreme cold, electricity or solar and other forms of radiation.

In the administering of first aid for a burn first determine of what type it is:

. Superficial burns (first degree) - only the top layer of skin is affected. The skin is red and dry, and the burn is usually painful. There may be swelling too. Sunburns are a type of superficial burns. Healing usually takes 5 to 6 days.

. Partial-thickness burns (second degree) - the epidermis and the dermis will be damaged. Blisters often occur and they may weep clear fluid; the burned skin may look mottled. The burn usually heals in 3 or 4 weeks and some scarring may happen.

. Full-thickness burns (third degree) - destroys both layers of skin, as well as some of the underlying structures - fat, muscles, bones, blood vessels and nerves. Sometimes skin grafts are required in order for a full healing to take place.

When treating a burns victim make sure that the scene is safe before proceeding, Be on the lookout for fire, smoke, fallen electrical wires and warning signs for chemicals or radiation. If the area has too many dangers call emergency services and wait for fire or ambulance personnel to arrive.

If the scene is sufficiently safe, approach the victim cautiously. Carry out a general observation and telephone for an ambulance where necessary. Examine the victim's airway and look for signs of breathing difficulties; air passages or lungs may have been burned so take care to continually monitor breathing.

When treating burns follow these four basic steps:

1. Cool the burned area.

2. Cover the burned area.

3. Prevent infection.

4. Minimize shock.

Even when a heat source has been removed, soft tissue will continue to burn for minutes after-wards, causing more damage; it is essential that you cool the burned areas with large amounts of cool water for up to 20 minutes. Remove any loose clothing from the area too.

As burns often expose sensitive nerve endings make sure to cover the burned area to keep out air and help reduce pain. Use dry, sterile dressings if possible, and loosely bandage them in place. The bandage should not apply pressure on the burn surface.

Covering the burn also helps to prevent infection. Never put ointments, butter, oil or other commercial or home remedies on blisters or full-thickness burns or on any burn that will receive medical attention. Oils and ointments seal in heat and do not help in the relief of pain. Other home remedies can contaminate open skin areas, causing infection. Do not break blisters. Intact skin helps prevent infection.

DOS AND DONT'S OF BURN CARE

Dos
. Cool burns by flushing with cool water.
. Remove rings and jewelery.
. Cover the burn with a dry, sterile dressing.
. Take steps to minimize shock.

Dont's
. Apply ice directly to burns.
. Touch burns with anything except sterile or clean dressings; do not pull clothes over any burned area.
. Remove pieces of cloth that stick to a burned area.
. Try to clean a full-thickness burn.
. Break blisters.
. Use any kind of oil or ointment on severe burns.
. Use cotton wool or other fluffy material on burns.

(First Aid manual was consulted in the composing of this article for reasons of accuracy.)

Learn more about this author, Fatherspirit.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about First aid for burns?
We want to hear your view. Write now!