03/15/2023
Burn injuries differ from other injury types because of the inherent risk of infection following the initial onset. Burns can be present in thermal (heat related) and chemical (reactivity), and range in severity.
Burn Severity
* 1st Degree - Localized redness (sunburn)
* 2nd Degree - Redness and blistering
* 3rd Degree - Charred or missing skin
Regardless of your understanding of the severity or type of burn, initial injury care should not be delayed.
- Remove yourself or the affected person from the immediate danger zone.
- Immediately flush the burn area with a clean water source (UNLESS it’s a chemical which is KNOWN to react with water. Follow SDS protocols for exposure to chemical burns. If unsure, flush anyway!)
- If equipped, apply sterile dressings (preferably non-stick bandages) and secure with gauze.
- Some burn creams include topical lidocaine which can greatly facilitate comfort to the affected area. Do not apply creams unintended for burn injuries!
- IMPORTANT! Ensure you have a plan to get to the RIGHT hospital. Not all Emergency Departments are created equal when it comes to burn patients. Do your research to find the right hospital and have a plan to get there. Is it an ambulance? How long will that take? Is someone transporting you? Do they know or know how to get there?
If you have any questions let us know!
