Burn wounds can be extremely painful, and, if not treated correctly, the major concern would be the resulting fluid loss and infection.

As a person is part of the environment that they are in, environmental conditions can have an effect on a person, depending on what the conditions are e.g temperature related conditions (heat or cold), and water related incidences.

In both the above cases, rapid, adequate treatment is vital, in order to prevent the condition of the person from worsening.

Classification of burns

1ST DEGREE / SUPERFICIAL   The outer / top layer (epidermis) of skin is affected. Skin is red and dry, swollen and usually painful.
2ND DEGREE / INTERMEDIATE   Top layers are burned. Skin will be red and have blisters. These burns are usually painful.
3RD DEGREE / DEEP DERMAL All the layers of the skin and underlying tissues (e.g. fat, muscle, bones and nerves) are damaged / destroyed. The skin can appear pale, waxy and / or charred. This type of burn may be quite painful or relatively painless due to nerve destruction.

Treatment

Thermal burns (Flame, Excessive Heat, Radiation or Sunburns)

Spray the burnt area with cool water

• Cover the area with a damp sterile dressing. Should the fingers and toes be involved; place damp dressings between them.
• Immobilise the limb
• Treat for shock.

Note: Remove rings, jewellery in case of swelling. Do not force jewellery off a swollen finger.

Electrical Burns

An electrical burn wound may severely damage underlying tissue. The patient may have two wounds from an electrical burn (entry / exit site). Never go near a patient who has been electrically burned unless you are sure that it is safe and that the power has been turned off.

• Turn power source off
• Check vital signs and provide appropriate cardiac care (if necessary)
• Do not move victim unless necessary (spinal trauma)
• Cover the area with a sterile dressing
• See medical attention

Chemical Burns

There are many chemicals that can cause a burn if they come into contact with skin or mucous membranes. (Example: chlorine, battery acid, DEET, etc.) Chemical burns require immediate care!

• Wash away the chemical with flowing water (gentle flow of water for at least 20 mins). Avoid hard flushing water pressure.
• Remove contaminated clothing and / or jewellery during  flushing procedure.
• If a dry chemical, such as lime, brush away chemical.
• Watch the victim for delayed reactions.
• Chemical in one eye - rinse contaminated eye downward so fluid flows away from other eye.

Smoke Inhalation

Smoke may irritate or damage the airway. Smoke can cause irritation to the eyes. First priority is to:

• Move patient to a safe area
• Check vital signs
• Place victim in a semi-seated or reclined position
• Call EMRS or call advanced medical help for supplementary oxygen.

Don’t for burns care:

• Don’t apply any home remedy or ointments
• Don’t apply ice directly on the skin
• Don’t break blisters
• Don’t remove pieces of clothing or any other item stuck to or in the burn
• Don’t give anything to eat or drink, unless he is fully conscious.

Do’s for burn care:

• Watch for signs and changes in breathing and consciousness
• Keep victim from getting chilled or overheated
• Seek medical attention, if appropriate.