Acute burns usually involve a skin injury and need immediate medical attention. While small burns don’t require hospitalization, the longer they go untreated, the higher the risk of infections, deteriorating appearance, and psychological distress. Luckily, there are many ways to treat the injury and prevent further damage. A multidisciplinary burn center has special expertise in the treatment of these injuries. The following steps are a guide for dealing with any type of burn.
First, remove any loose clothing or jewelry that is covering the burn area. Then, place a cool bandage over it. Do not immerse the burned area in water as this can cause additional damage to the skin. Also, remember that water can cause shock, so avoid using it to cool a burned area. Make sure to elevate the area and watch for signs of shock. Taking pain relievers and applying aloe gel can help minimize the pain.
Immediately remove any clothing that might have been on the affected area. Then, take a shower or bath, and wash the burn area with cool water. While it is best to seek emergency medical attention, you can clean it with a mild soap and water. It is not necessary to use alcohol or iodine for disinfection. These cleansers can be irritating and cause more damage. Taking care of burns can be a difficult process, but it’s crucial to be prepared.
Although most nonprescription pain medications can help alleviate the pain, a prescription pain medication is needed if the burn is severe. Additionally, topical anesthetic agents can irritate the skin, which may result in itching. In addition to nonprescription pain relievers, you can use nonprescription antihistamines to control itchiness. You should also consult a physician if the burn is accompanied by other symptoms of an infection, such as fever, inflammation, or a skin rash.
The patient should remain covered with cool water for a few hours. After the burn has been thoroughly cooled, the skin will become thick and less sensitive. However, the burn must be kept covered, as it can cause the skin to tear easily. If the patient is conscious, he or she should be reassured by an experienced healthcare provider. Ensure that the child is in a stable condition and that the wound has not been infected by an external source.
When a burn is severe, it can be difficult to determine whether or not medical treatment is needed. The skin of a newly healed burn is thinner than the skin of a previously healed one. This makes it susceptible to bruising and should be covered with a bandage or other protective clothing. It will take a long time to heal completely, and it may be required to have a skin graft. A doctor must be able to assess the severity of the injury before recommending a treatment.