| First Aid Help For Burns |
| Written by Roger Henry |
| Wednesday, 28 October 2009 13:02 |
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The classification of burns is set by the severity of the injury and the extent of damage to the tissues. The classifications are: first, second and third degree burns. Giving first aid to a severe burn only varies a little from a less grave burn. In some cases a second degree burn can be as damaging as a third degree burn, depending on the area damaged especially in the outer extremities
The classification of burns is set by the severity of the injury and the extent of damage to the tissues. The classifications are: first, second and third degree burns. Giving first aid to a severe burn only varies a little from a less grave burn. In some cases a second degree burn can be as damaging as a third degree burn, depending on the area damaged especially in the outer extremities Giving first aid to first degree burns First degree burns involve the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. This layer is like a raincoat. The epidermis is the layer that keeps all the body fluids within the body and keeps bacteria and all the elements outside the body from entering. In a first degree burn the epidermis has not been injured very badly, it is to be considered a minor burn unless the burn involves sensitive areas such as the face, groin, buttocks, or the hands and feet. The first objective is to get away from the source of heat, and then cool the burn. Run cool water over the burn or place a cool compress over it. Cooling the burn prevents swelling and thus helps to relieve pain. First aid and second degree burns A second degree burn can be quite painful. The reason is that the fluid in between the dermis and the epidermis has caused swelling and blistering. It is the swelling that causes the pain. Some areas of the body need special attention, such as the face, feet, arms, buttocks. Any sensitive areas should be considered a serious injury and seek immediate medical help. However in a second degree burn you would normally follow the same advice you got for first degree burns. You obviously want to remove the person from the heat source. Then use plenty of cold water if it is available. You can also use a wet towel or cloth and keep it on the area affected, thus cooling the burn and relieving the pain. First aid for burns of the third degree Third degree burns are usually painless because the nerve endings have been burned away. You may not know initially how badly burned you may be. The burn will have penetrated the skin and fatty layer, and may be even more involved. Third degree burns can go down to the muscle layers and even to the bone. Some professionals categorize burns that penetrate to the bone as fourth degree burns. First aid for burns of the 3rd degree starts out by getting away from the source of the burn, and call 911 The victim should be lying down with his/her feet elevated above the heart to prevent the symptoms of shock. Cool moist towels should be placed over the burns. Do not immerse the large third degree burns in cold water; this could cause the victim to go into shock. Never try to remove clothing that is stuck to a burned area. Once EMS has arrived let them take over the care of the victim. About the Author: Looking to find the best deal on First Aid Guides, then visit www.firstaid-tips.com to find the best advice on first aid for you and your family. |