BURNS
SHOCK IS THE BIGGEST DANGER WHICH CAN DEVELOP - EVEN WITH SUNBURN
INFECTION IS THE BIGGEST RISK
Types of burns
Superficial(EG mild Sunburn)
• No blistering
• Only damage to top layer of skin (Epidermis)
• Usually heal in 3 – 6 days
• Hospitalization only for SHOCK, FEVER, DEHYDRATION OR SEVERE PAIN
Intermediate
• Burns to all epidermis (top layer of skin) and some portion of the dermis
• They will blister or appear white, under the blister they are red and moist
Deep
• A full thickness burn destroys the epidermis and dermis.
• They are dry with a dark brown or leathery appearance
• Most full thickness burns are more than 3cm in diameter
TREATMENT OF BURNS
• If burn is bigger than 'hand' size get casualty to hospital
• Remove the source of burn
• Do not remove burnt on clothing
• Cool with water for 10 / 20 minutes
• Cover with sterile dressing (eg cling film / plastic bag)
• Treat for shock
• Urgent medical aid
• No creams, oils etc...
Other types of burns:
Chemical
Electrical