Transcript CHAPTER9

Burns
Types of Burns
• Thermal (heat)
burns
• Chemical burns
• Electrical burns
© Scott Camazine/Photo Researchers, Inc.
Depth of Burns
• Depth (degree)
– First-degree (superficial)
– Second-degree (partial thickness)
– Third-degree (full thickness)
First-Degree Burns
(Superficial)
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Redness
Mild swelling
Tenderness
Pain
© Amy Walters/ShutterStock, Inc.
Second-Degree Burns
(Partial Thickness)
• Blisters
• Swelling
• Weeping
fluids
• Intense pain
© E. M. Singletary, M.D. Used with permission.
Third-Degree Burns
(Full Thickness)
• Dead nerve
endings
• Leathery, waxy
skin
• Pearly gray or
charred skin
Extent of Burns
• Rule of the hand
– Victim’s hand equals
1% of body surface
area.
• Which parts of body
are burned?
• Other injuries or
medical conditions?
• Is patient elderly or
very young?
Care for First-Degree Burns
• Cool burn until pain free.
• Apply moisturizer such as aloe vera gel.
• Administer OTC pain reliever as needed
(eg, ibuprofen).
Care for Small SecondDegree Burns
• Cool burn until pain free.
• Apply antibiotic ointment.
• Cover burn with dry, nonstick, sterile
dressing.
• Administer OTC pain reliever as needed
(eg, ibuprofen).
• Seek medical care.
Care for Large Second-Degree
and Third-Degree Burns
• Remove jewelry and clothing not stuck
to burn.
• Cover burn with dry, nonstick, sterile
dressing.
• Care for shock.
• Call 9-1-1.
Chemical Burns
• Results from caustic
or corrosive
substance
– Acids, alkalis, and
organic compounds
• Chemicals continue to
burn as long as they
are in contact with the
skin; remove quickly.
Care for Chemical Burns
• Brush/flush skin to
remove chemical.
• Remove contaminated
clothing.
• Cover burn with
dressing.
• Seek medical care.
Electrical Burns
• Thermal burn
(flame)
• Arc burn (flash)
• True electrical
injury (contact)
© Chuck Stewart, MD
Care for Electrical Burns
• Make the scene safe.
– Unplug, disconnect, and turn off electricity.
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Check responsiveness and breathing.
Provide CPR if needed.
Care for shock.
Call 9-1-1.