Last Updated on August 2, 2022 by
One minute you’re cooking dinner, and the next, you’re standing with your hand under running water trying to soothe an accidental burn.
However, if you aren’t careful, you could end up making your surface-level burn a significant health issue. Whether you’ve burned your hand by way of heat, sun, or electricity, you’ll need to treat it promptly.
If you’re not sure what the proper first aid for burns is, be sure to keep reading. You’ll learn what steps to take in order to prevent your injury from getting worse.
Immediately After
In the severe case that your hair or clothing catches on fire, immediately stop, drop, and roll. This technique will help to smother and extinguish the flames.
Next, you’ll want to remove any clothing or jewelry. This step is vital, as leaving excess material near the burn can cause further injury. Any material that has been burned into the skin should be cut around.
Also, burns tend to swell immediately, making it painful and difficult to remove accessories.
You’ll also want to determine what degree of burn the injury is. Identification can help determine the first aid for burns step by step protocol that you should follow to help treat your injury.
Cool The Burn
Next, for first- and second-degree burns, you’ll want to begin cooling the injury. First-degree burns can be covered with a cool compress, run underwater, or fully submerged.
A second-degree burn should be submerged in cool water for ten to fifteen minutes. Be sure to use cool, not cold water, as cold water can restrict blood vessels and make the injury worse.
Covering The Area
Once you’ve cooled the burn, you’ll want to cover the burn to help prevent infections. Keeping a fully stocked first aid kit with supplies from firstaidsuppliesonline.com can help you during an emergency.
One of the most crucial first aid for burns tips is to refrain from applying ointments or creams to help treat the burn. However, these can lead to infections.
Instead, cover the burn with sterile, non-adhesive bandages or coverings. Be sure to wrap it loosely to avoid putting further pressure on the injury and protect any subsequent blisters from bursting.
When To Call 911
Though any burn can cause you to panic, first- and second-degree burns can typically be treated with first aid, and you can receive subsequent treatment from a doctor.
However, third-degree burns will require immediate emergency medical attention. These burns are extremely serious and can often lead to shock and even fatality if left untreated.
Calling emergency services should be the first step when dealing with a third-degree burn.
Your Guide to First Aid For Burns
Though scary and painful, most burns are not a cause for panic. However, knowing how to treat injuries can help you prevent the burn from becoming urgent.
Knowing how to perform first aid for burns is just as important as knowing CPR. Remember, in the event of an emergency, remain calm and trust your instincts.
If you found this first aid for burns guide informative, be sure to visit the rest of our website. There, you can find more helpful health and lifestyle tips and tricks.
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