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Burns can occur through various means, including contact with hot objects, steam, chemicals, electricity, or sun exposure.
The primary approach to treating burns is to cool the affected area under running water for a minimum of 20 minutes or by gently pouring cool water over the burn for the same duration. This thorough cooling helps prevent further damage and ensures the skin is adequately cooled.
In situations without access to running water, burn kits become valuable. These kits are commonly found in kitchens and areas with an elevated risk of burn injuries.
Burn dressings found in these kits are gel-based, designed to cool the burn without adhering to the injured area.
Handling burns requires utmost care, as they compromise the body's natural infection barrier. Therefore, it's crucial to maintain strict cleanliness when dealing with burns.
Burns can vary in intensity and fall into different categories:
Note: Burns can also be a combination of partial and full thickness, with varying severity across the affected area.
Several factors influence burn injuries:
For assessing burn size, the "Rule of Nines" is commonly used:
The burn's severity depends on the percentage of the body affected, as calculated using the Rule of Nines and the burn's thickness (partial or full).
This calculation is essential for informing Emergency Services about the situation.
Various dressings and first aid solutions for burns are available, including burn wrap and special dressings, gels, and sprays. These products are designed to protect and soothe burn injuries.
If clothing is stuck to a burn, avoid peeling it off. Instead, carefully cut around the affected area when necessary to prevent further damage.
Common items found in burn kits include safety scissors for cutting clothing, gloves for protection, and saline solution for cleansing.