SEVERE BURNS AND SCALDS; FIRST AID

Take great care when treating burns that are deep or extensive. The longer the burning continues, the more severe the injury will be. If the casualty has been burnt in a fire, you should assume that smoke or hot air has also affected the respiratory system.

The priorities are to begin rapid cooling of the burn and to check breathing. A casualty with a severe burn or scald injury will almost certainly be suffering from shock and will need hospital care. If the casualty has a facial burn, do not cover the injury, you could cause the casualty distress and obstruct the airway. Keep cooling the area with water until help arrives. Ensure you record all details accurately. Retain any removed clothing in case of future investigation.

Your aim is to;

·         Stop the burning and relief pain

·         To maintain open airway.

·         To treat associated injuries.

·         To minimize the risk of infection.

·         To arrange urgent removal to the hospital and to gather information for the emergency services.

CAUTION: Watch for any signs of difficulty in breathing; be prepared to give rescue breathes and chest compression if necessary.

FIRST AID MANAGEMENT OF SEVERE BURNS AND SCALDS.

1. Help the casualty to lie down. If possible, try preventing the burnt area to come into contact with the ground. 
2.  Douse the burn with plenty of cold liquid for at least twenty (20) minutes, but do not delay the casualty’s removal to the hospital. 
   
3. Continue cooling the affected area until the pain is relieved.
4. Put on disposable gloves if available. Gently remove any ring, watches, belts, shoes or smouldering clothing before the tissues begin to swell. Carefully remove any clothing unless it is sticking to the burn, in order not to cause further damage and introduce infection to the burnt area. 
   
5. Cover the injured area with a sterile dressing to protect it from infection. If a sterile dressing is not available use a clean triangular bandage or part of a sheet. Secure it with a bandage or adhesive tape applied over the bandage not the skin.
   
6. Gather and record details of the casualty’s injuries. Regularly monitor and record her vital signs- level of response, pulse and breathing.
7. While waiting for help to arrive, reassure the casualty and treat her for shock if necessary.

CAUTION; do not over-cool the casualty because you may lower the body temperature to a dangerous level. This is a particular hazard to babies and elderly people. Do not burst any blisters. Do not apply lotions, ointment, fat or adhesive tape to the burnt area.

      

     

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