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Burns Injuries

Condition
Usually burns are caused by heat (called thermal burns) or chemicals (called chemical burns) however they can also be caused by sunlight, electricity and radiation.

Burns caused by heat and chemicals usually happen because the body has been in contact with them, hence the skin becomes damaged. In some cases the burn is so severe that it penetrates deeper into the skin and affects structures such as bones, fat and muscle.

In the process of burning fluid leaks from the tissues into the blood vessels causing pain and swelling and body surfaces become infected because they have no barrier protecting them from organisms.

Recognition
First degree burns are red, moist, swollen and painful. When lightly touched the burned area whitens but does not develop blisters.

Second degree burns are also red, swollen, moist and painful and they also develop blisters that may exude a clear fluid. Again the burned area will whiten when touched.

Third degree burns are different in that they are not painful because the nerves have been destroyed. The skin will be taught and leathery and may be white, black or bright red. The burned area does not whiten when touched and no blisters develop. In addition the symptoms of deep burns may get worse over a period of a few days.

Graphic

• First degree – red, swollen and painful. Whitens when touched
• Second degree – Same as first degree with blistering
• Third degree – Nerves destroyed, taught skin, white black or bright red in colour.

Action
For first and second degree burns you should hold or immerse the burn in cold running water until the pain subsides. Cover it with a sterile gauze bandage and wrap loosely to avoid any pressure on the burned skin. Most minor burns heal without further treatment but do watch out for infection.

Third degree burns are the most serious and involve all layers of the skin. Bone, fat and muscle may also be affected and areas may be charred black or look dry and white. If a third degree burn occurs do not remove burnt clothing however do make sure they are not in contact with smouldering materials. Don’t immerse large burns in cold water as it can bring on shock.

Make sure that you check for signs of circulation and breathing – if there is none present start CPR. Use a moist sterile bandage to cover the area of the burn.

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