Highlights / Articles

Articles

April 4, 2024

First Aid for Burns and Scalds – A Quick Guide

Accidents happen, especially in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether it’s a kitchen mishap, a run-in with a hot surface, or a spill from a boiling pot, burns and scalds are common injuries that can occur unexpectedly. While they can be painful and alarming, knowing how to administer first aid promptly can make a significant difference in the outcome. Today, we’ll explore everything you need to know about providing first aid for burns and scalds.

Understanding Burns and Scalds

Before diving into the first aid procedures, it is essential to understand the difference between burns and scalds.

Burn Injury

Burns

Burns typically occur when the skin comes into contact with a heat source, such as flames, hot objects, or chemicals. They can range from mild to severe and are categorised into three degrees:

First-degree burns: Affecting only the outer layer of skin, causing redness, pain, and swelling.
Second-degree burns: Affecting both the outer and underlying layer of skin, characterised by blistering, severe pain, and swelling.
Third-degree burns: Penetrating deeper into the skin, often resulting in white or charred skin, numbness, and severe tissue damage.

Scalds

Scalds occur when the skin is exposed to hot liquids or steam.

They can cause similar symptoms to burns and are also classified based on their severity.

First Aid Procedures

Prompt action is crucial when it comes to treating burns and scalds. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to administer first aid effectively:

1. Assess the Situation

Before providing aid, ensure that the scene is safe and that there are no ongoing dangers, such as flames or hot surfaces. If necessary, move the affected person away from the source of heat.

2. Cool the Burn or Scald

The first step in treating a burn or scald is to cool the affected area with cool (not cold) running water for at least 10 minutes. Avoid using ice or iced water as it can further damage the skin. Cooling the burn helps to reduce pain, prevent further tissue damage, and minimise swelling.

3. Remove Clothing and Jewellery

If the burn or scald is not severe and the clothing is not stuck to the skin, carefully remove any clothing or jewellery from the affected area. However, if clothing is stuck to the burn, do not attempt to remove it, as it may cause further damage. Leave this to medical professionals.

4. Protect the Burn

After cooling the burn, cover it with a clean, non-adhesive dressing or cling film to prevent infection. Avoid using fluffy materials that could stick to the burn and cause more pain.

5. Provide Comfort

While waiting for medical help to arrive, reassure the person and help them to remain calm. Encourage them to rest in a comfortable position and monitor their condition closely.

When Should You Go to a Hospital?

So, what to do after you’ve administered first aid? When should you visit a hospital? You must go to a hospital under the following circumstances:

If the affected person is under the age of 10.
The burn is larger than the size of the person’s palm.
The burn is on the face, hands, feet, genitals, or over a joint.
The burn is deep, blistered, or appears charred.
The person is experiencing severe pain, difficulty breathing, or signs of shock.
Has a weakened immune system due to a medical condition such as suffering from AIDS or HIV or undergoing chemotherapy for cancer.
Has a chronic medical condition such as diabetes or heart, liver or lung disease.

Moreover, if the affected person has breathed in smoke or fumes, then they must go to the hospital for immediate medical attention. The person might show any or all of the following symptoms if they have breathed in smoke or fumes:

Difficulty in breathing
Coughing
A sore throat

If a person has facial burns, then the person should be taken to the hospital immediately.

Avoiding Incidents that Can Lead to Burns and Scalds

While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of burns and scalds:

Supervise Children

Keep young children away from hot surfaces, such as stoves, ovens, and kettles. Use safety gates and locks to prevent access to potentially hazardous areas.

Practise Kitchen Safety

Take precautions when cooking with hot oil, boiling water, or steam. Use oven mitts or potholders to handle hot cookware, and never leave cooking unattended.

Adjust Water Temperature

Set your water heater thermostat to a safe temperature to prevent scalding accidents. The recommended temperature is below 49°C (120°F).

Use Caution with Hot Beverages

Be cautious when handling hot drinks, especially around children. Use spill-proof cups and avoid placing hot beverages within reach of little ones.

Install Smoke Alarms

Ensure that smoke alarms are installed and working correctly in your home. In the event of a fire, early detection can save lives.

First Aid Saves Lives

Burns and scalds can be painful and distressing, but knowing how to administer first aid promptly can make a significant difference in the outcome.

By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking preventive measures, you can help minimise the risk of burns and scalds in your home or workplace.

Remember, safety always comes first, and being prepared can make all the difference in an emergency.

Sources:

Back to Articles