Burns
(Skin Burns)
In this condition factsheet:
Diagnosing Burns
A diagnosis is usually formed based on burn depth. However, the severity might also be influenced by the extent of damage to the body.
The extent of a burn is usually based on the "rule of nines" – each arm is considered 9% of the body surface area, each leg is 18%, the back and front of the torso are each considered to be 18%, the head and neck are 9%, and the genital region is 1% of the surface area. Using these classifications, a physician can make a clear diagnosis.
Your doctor can also order blood and urine tests to monitor your body's electrolytes and detect proteins caused by the destruction of muscle tissue that may occur with third-degree burns.
Treating and Preventing Burns
Treatment decisions are based on the need to relieve pain, reduce swelling, prevent infection, and promote healing.
Burns of partial thickness that cover more than 10% of the body surface, or suspected third-degree burns should be assessed by a physician.
It is also important to get medical attention for burns in the very young or the elderly, or if the eyes, ears, face, feet, or perineum (the area between the legs and behind the genitalia) are involved. However, if these parts haven't been affected, or if there's no blistering, medical attention may not be necessary.
For first-degree (minor) burns, cool moist compresses should be applied immediately. The cool compresses may reduce the swelling and pain. Don't exert pressure on the burned skin. The burn should be cleaned to prevent infection.
Although no dressing is required, a light dressing may aid the discomfort. A water-based skin moisturizer may be applied if no blisters form, to help the skin heal.
For second-degree burns, the skin should be placed in cool water. If the skin is broken, it should be gently washed by rinsing well with a saline solution. Everyone who develops blisters on their burns should see a doctor. There are differing ideas on how to treat blisters. Some physicians believe that blisters are a protective barrier for the burn. Others feel that the trapped fluid in the blister can become infected. It's important to see a physician so that blister care can be provided.
Ibuprofen* or acetaminophen can be taken to help relieve any pain or swelling.
In the case of severe, third-degree burns, emergency medical services should be called immediately. The goal is to prevent infection (one of the most significant problems in burn victims), prevent dehydration, remove dead tissue, and cover the wound with skin as soon as possible. Cold water should not be applied and clothing that's stuck to the burn shouldn't be removed. Cover the burn loosely with a clean, dry dressing such as a handkerchief, pillowcase, or a sheet. It's important to keep yourself warm after the burn.
People with electrical burns should always see a doctor. Although they may appear superficial, there may be damage to deeper tissues that is not immediately evident. Also, these people may be at risk for cardiac arrhythmias for 72 hours after being burned electrically.
Be cautious of circumferential burns (that is, burns that encircle a limb and may cause circulation problems with scarring), as these should be assessed by your physician.
In all cases, do not apply butter or margarine. These won't relieve pain and may increase the burning sensation. If blisters form and break, it may also lead to infection.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2024. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/Burns
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