Burns
Burns
can be caused by fire, the sun, chemicals,
heated objects or fluids, and electricity.
They can be minor problems or
life-threatening emergencies. Distinguishing
a minor burn from a more serious burn
involves determining the degree of damage to
the tissues of the body. If you are not sure
how serious the burn is, seek emergency medical help.
First-degree burns are those in
which only the outer layer of skin is
burned. The skin is usually red and some
swelling and pain may occur. Unless the burn
involves large portions of the body, it can
be treated at home.
Second-degree burns are those in
which the first layer of skin has been
burned through and the second layer of skin
is also burned. In these burns, the skin
reddens intensely and blisters develop.
Severe pain and swelling also occur. If a
second-degree burn is no larger than 2 or 3
inches in diameter, it can be treated at
home. If the burn covers a larger area, seek
medical attention. You may need a tetanus
booster.
Third-degree burns are the most
serious and involve all layers of skin. Fat,
nerves, muscles, and even bones may be
affected. Areas may be charred black or
appear a dry white. If nerve damage is
substantial, there may be no pain at all.
These burns should receive emergency medical
attention.
Follow these steps when treating
minor burns at home:
1.If the skin is not broken, run
cool water over the burn for several
minutes.
2.Cover the burn with a sterile
bandage or clean cloth.
3.Take aspirin or acetaminophen to
relieve any swelling or pain.
Call Hatzoloh immediately for major
burns.
Until
Hatzoloh arrives, follow these steps:
1. Remove the person from the source
of the burn (fire, electrical current,
etc.).
2. If the person is not breathing,
begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
immediately (see Mouth-to-Mouth Resuscitation).
3. Remove all smoldering clothing to
stop further burning.
4. If the person is breathing
sufficiently, cover the burned area with a
cool, moist, sterile bandage or clean cloth.
Do not place any creams, ointments or
ice on the burned area or break blisters.
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DISCLAIMER:
Under no conditions responsibility is being accepted by
the authors of this site, or anyone else related to this site regarding the
consequences of use of the information distributed in this documentation in any
First Aid application.
THIS IS A TUTORIAL, HENCE A STUDY
AID, NOT A FIRST AID MANUAL.
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