In cases of burns, regardless of whether they are categorised as first-, second-, or third-degree, the most important thing is to cool the affected spot.
The surface of a burn wound is defined by “Wallace’s Rule of Nines". According to it, in adults the head constitutes 9 percent of body surface area, the front and rear surface of the torso - 18 percent, upper limbs- 9 percent each, lower limbs- 18 percent each, perineum 1 percent.
In children under 5 years of age, the head is 18 percent, upper limbs - 9 percent each, legs - 14 percent each, and torso - 36 percent in total.
Classification of burns: minor, moderate, major
Burns are considered minor ones if they are first- or second-degree burns and cover less than 15 percent of body surface area, or third degree burns at the body surface area of less than 5 percent.
Moderate burns are first and second degree burns covering from 15 to 30 percent of body surface area, or third-degree burns covering less than 10 percent.
Burns are classified as major when they are first- or second-degree burns covering more than 30 percent of body surface area, or in the case of third-degree burns - more than 10 percent.
Major burns also include third-degree burns of the face, feet and hands or airways.
First-degree burns
In first degree burns we deal with redness of the skin. The injured may experience swelling and pain. In this case, it is enough to cool the burned spot under running water.
If the surface of the burn is not large, it does not require medical intervention.
Second-degree burns
Second-degree burns may be accompanied by redness, swelling, or blisters. They can be caused e.g. by hot oil or boiling water, freshly brewed coffee, tea.
Second degree burns require medical treatment. In some cases you should call an ambulance, for example, in the case of burns of the pelvic area or thighs, the back and chest or e.g. hands in children.
Principles of conduct in second-degree burns
In this case, it is necessary to cool the burned spot. The injured person should be given painkillers.
“If a blister appears, do not pierce or lubricate it with any ointments or oils. Cold water is enough," a paramedic warns.
He reminds that when we burn our finger or hand, it is necessary to remove all jewelry. If swelling occurs, a ring or a bracelet can press blood vessels and lead to necrosis.
If we burn a spot covered with clothing, we need to take it off as soon as possible. Clothing soaked with e.g. hot water continues to heat. If clothing made of plastic blends into the body, the piece should be cut out so as not to cause additional pain for the injured or not to cause secondary injury.
Third-degree burns
In the case of third-degree burns, we deal with very deep skin lesions, blisters over a large area and sometimes the charring of tissues. This type of burns is primarily caused by fires.
In such cases cooling is also the most important. Although the injured person typically does not feel pain(usually damaged nerve endings are located close to the skin),(s)he is given painkillers.
So-called hydrogels are perfect for all types of burns. They cool efficiently and for a long time. You can buy them at a pharmacy," advises the paramedic.
Respiratory tract burns
Respiratory tract burns can occur when someone has inhaled hot air, e.g. when being in a room on fire.
The injured must then be separated from the heat source as soon as possible, and removed from the zone of smoke and fire.
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