Chapter 8 Burns

Types of Burns Thermal (heat) burns Chemical burns Electrical burns

Thermal Burns Depth (degree) First-degree (superficial) Second-degree (partial thickness) Third-degree (full thickness) Extent (Rule of palm) Parts of body burned Other injuries or medical conditions Whether patient is elderly or very young

First-Degree Burns (Superficial) Redness Mild swelling Tenderness Pain

Second-Degree Burns (Partial Thickness) Blisters Swelling Weeping fluids Intense pain

Third-Degree Burns (Full Thickness) Dead nerve endings Leathery, waxy skin Pearly gray or charred skin

Care for Thermal Burns Stop the burning process. Open airway and check breathing. Seek medical attention if: Victim is younger than 5, older than 55 Victim has difficulty breathing There are other injuries or electrical injury Face, feet, hands, or genitals are burned Child abuse is suspected Second-degree burn is larger than 20% BSA Burn is third degree

First-Degree Burns Cool burn. Apply moisturizer such as aloe vera gel. Administer ibuprofen to relieve pain (acetaminophen for children).

Small Second-Degree Burns Cool burn. Apply antibiotic ointment. Cover burn with dry, nonstick, sterile dressing. Administer ibuprofen to relieve pain (acetaminophen for children).

Large Second-Degree and Third-Degree Burns Monitor breathing. Cover burn with dry, nonstick, sterile dressing. Care for shock. Seek medical care.

Chemical Burns Results from caustic or corrosive substance Acids, alkalis, and organic compounds Continue to burn as long as they are in contact with the skin; remove quickly

Care for Chemical Burns Flush skin. Remove contaminated clothing. Cover burn. Seek medical care.

Electrical Burns Thermal burn (flame) Arc burn (flash) True electrical injury (contact)

Care for Electrical Burns Make the scene safe. Open airway and check breathing. Check for spinal injuries. Cover burns. Care for shock. Call 9-1-1.

Contact With Electrical Current Downed power lines Turn off power before approaching patient. Must have training and appropriate tools Faulty electrical equipment or careless use of electrical appliances Turn off electricity at the circuit breaker, fuse box, or outside switch box. Unplug appliance if plug is undamaged. Do not touch the patient until current is off.