Burn wounds are one of those injuries that really catch one off guard. No injury is welcomed, but it always feels like a burn wound is all the more unexpected. Therefore, it is crucial to be prepared, both with essential first aid items like Bioclusive dressing and knowing what to do. Many supposed common-sense solutions to burn wounds are wildly inaccurate, and you must follow the proper steps. Below is our list of the essential first aid practices for treating burn wounds.
Assessment
Just how bad is the burn? While it's best to seek professional medical help regarding all types of injuries, there is an obvious difference between full-body first-degree burns and a scorched thumb from a hot plate.
You can treat minor burn wounds at home. Be sure to assess the injury. Indicators that you should seek medical attention include deep wounds, a leathery texture on the skin, a charred appearance of the wound, white, black, or brown skin patches, and burns that are larger than three inches in diameter.
Treating Major Burns Until Emergency Services Arrive
First, make sure the person who has suffered the burns is out of harm's way. Next, make sure the person is no longer in contact with the source of the burn. In cases of electric burns, turn off the primary power source before approaching the victim. Make sure that the victim is breathing and conscious. Administer CPR if you have received training.
In any incident where someone is burned, try to remove any jewelry and other restrictive items safely. This step is essential for the areas that have suffered burn wounds as they are likely to swell rapidly. Cover the burnt areas in a cool, moist bandage or cloth. Do not immerse the wounds in water. Next, elevate the burnt areas above heart level if you can. Look for signs of physical shock. These include fainting and shallow breathing.
Treating minor burns
Place the burn wound under cool running water. Do not use cold water. You can also consider an ice pack if you cover the pack with a dry cloth. Do this until the pain subsides. Remove any item that may cause constriction before the wound site begins to swell. The wound site will most likely form a blister. These fluid-filled blisters are your body's natural response to burn wounds.
Do not pop the blister, no matter how tempting. Should the blister pop on its own, clean the area with water and mild soap. Immediately apply an antibiotic ointment. If this causes a rash to form, consult your doctor immediately. Aloe Vera based oil or moisturizer will help provide relief. Bandage the wound with sterile gauze and use Bioclusive dressing should you have it.
Wrap the wound gently and avoid putting too much pressure on the area. This protects the wound site from airborne infections. Over-the-counter pain medication like Advil or Aspirin should help ease the pain while the wound heals.