Chapter 7

Introduction American Red Cross Video Burns can damage the top layer of skin or the skin and the layers of fat, muscle and bone beneath. Classifications of burns: Superficial (1st degree) Partial thickness (2nd degree) Full Thickness (3rd degree) Sources: Heat (thermal) Chemical Electrical Radiation (Ex. Sun)

What to Look For Superficial Burns Partial-thickness Burns Skin red and dry, area may swell Heal within a week without permanent scarring Partial-thickness Burns Skin red, painful and open and weeping blisters Skin appears wet and mottled causing swelling Full-thickness Burns May destroy fat, muscle, bones or nerves Skin brown or black(charred) Tissue underneath appearing white Painful or painless if nerve damage occurs Healing requires medical assistance

When to Call 911 Trouble Breathing Burns covering more than one body part or large areas Suspected burns to airway Burns to head, neck, hands, feet or genitals A full-thickness burn and is younger than 5 years or older than 60 years A burn caused by chemicals, explosions or electricity.

What to do until Help Arrives Heat (thermal) Burns/ Radiation Burns Check the scene and remove person from source of heat Check for life-threatening conditions Cool the burn with cool water but do not apply ice Cover the burn with sterile and loose dressing Minimize shock Do not touch or remove any clothing on burn Do not try to clean burn or apply ointment Do not break any blisters

What to do until Help Arrives Chemical Burns Brush off chemical (it will continue to burn as long as it is on the skin) with gloved hands, towel or sterile dressing. Flush with cool water with pressure for 20 minutes Remove contaminated clothing if possible Chemicals can be inhaled, damaging airway so be aware to be ready to treat a breathing emergency.

What to do until Help Arrives Electrical Burns Never go to a person unless they are not in contact with power source Turn off the power source and care for life-threatening conditions. Call 911 Electrocution can cause cardiac and respiratory emergencies, be prepared to perform CPR Look for entry and exit wounds and give care