Burns

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Injury Definition

• A burn is a heat injury to the skin. Burns are classified as:
  • 1st degree - reddened skin without blisters.
  • 2nd degree - reddened skin with blisters (Heals from the bottom up, not from the edges. Takes 2 to 3 weeks) Small closed blisters contain protective chemicals, serve as a dressing and reduce pain.
  • 3rd degree - deep burns with white or charred skin. Skin sensation is absent. Usually needs a skin graft to prevent bad scarring if it is larger than a quarter (1 inch) in size. (Heals from the edges)

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

• SUNBURN

First Aid for Burns from Heat

• Immediately (don't take time to remove clothing) put the burned part in cold tap water or pour cold water over it for 10 minutes. For burns on the face, apply a cold wet washcloth. (Reason: lessen the depth of the burn and relieve pain).

First Aid for Burns from Chemicals

• Remove any contaminated clothing.
• Flush the chemical off the skin with warm water for 10 minutes. For large areas, use a shower.