Tips When Giving First Aid For Burns

Burns are one of the most commonly occurring accidents that can happen anywhere and anytime Burns vary in different levels ranging from the slightest burn to the severely painful. A burn may debilitate one's ability to perform normal everyday activities and may be fatal, depending on its intensity. Moreover, keep in mind that just because a burn is small does not mean that you have to simply ignore it, as even the slightest burn can be very painful and may even get worse. That is why, it is important to attend to and treat the condition by giving first aid for burns before it can get worse.

Burns may be classified into first, second and third degree burns, of which the second and third degree burns require immediate medical assistance. On the other hand, first aid for burns is only usually given for first degree burns, which affect the skin's top layer.

When giving first aid for burns, the first thing you need to do is to cool and cover the burn in order to relieve the patient from pain. If the burned area is covered with clothing, carefully take it off as clothing can keep heat in, even in scald burns. However, avoid removing material that may be sticking to the affected part as this can result to an infection. Avoid using iced water or ice on the burn as it may take a longer while for it to heal. Then, dress the affected area with a bandage or sterile pad. The use of creams, oils or sprays is not recommended when giving first aid for burns, as it can only increase the risks of infection.

First aid treatment for burns is usually topical and can be done by running cold water on the burn to stop the burning phase. Then you can apply antibiotic treatment and wrap the affected area with bandage or a clean and dry cloth.

Severe burns, usually second or third degree burns, are usually characterized by swelling, severe blistering and normally cover a large portion of the skin. Immediate first aid for burns in these degrees is an important thing to do firsthand and should be given proper medical treatment as well. Remember not to treat severe burns with cold water as this can induce shock.

Moreover, when giving first aid for burns that arise from flames the first thing you need to do is roll the person on the surface to put out the fire and immediately cover him or her with a blanket or any clothing material that can cover him well enough. Also, first aid for burns arising from electricity should only be administered by first detaching the victim from the electrical source.

Giving first aid for burns can spell a difference between a small mishap and a huge accident.