Treating Burns with Plastic Film

Introduction

Learn how to treat burns using plastic film as a protective covering.

Materials Needed

• Burn film: Specialized burns film or regular plastic wrap for food storage.
• Scissors: Blunt-ended shears for cutting the film.
• Gloves: To maintain cleanliness during the procedure.

Procedure

Follow these steps when dealing with a burn using plastic film:

1. Prepare the Film: Begin by removing any dirty or non-sterile sections of the film, ensuring a clean piece for use.
2. Inspect the Burn: Check the burn site and remove any jewelry to prevent constriction due to swelling.
3. Application: Layer the film gently over the burn, avoiding wrapping it tightly to accommodate potential swelling.
4. Secure the Film: To prevent it from slipping, use a bandage to lightly secure the film in place, allowing easy removal if necessary.

Additional Tips

• Reducing Pain: The film helps expel air and oxygen, reducing pain in the affected area.
• Transport: If transporting the patient to the hospital, ensure the film is securely in place but not too tight to account for swelling.
• Caution: Be cautious when applying the film to larger areas of the body to avoid unnecessary constriction.

Remember, burns requiring plastic film treatment should be assessed by a medical professional as soon as possible.