Must Know First Aid for Burns to Save Lives

Burn injuries can occur anywhere, including at home. If not you experienced it, it could be you is the closest person who can help the victim. Therefore, it is important to know how to provide first aid for burns.

In order to provide first aid for burns, it is important to recognize the types of burns. In addition, the treatment of burns needs to be adjusted to the level of the wound as well.

Recognizing the Type of Burn

There are several factors that can cause burns, such as excessive sun exposure, electric shock, fire or fire, and burns due to exposure to chemicals. Judging from the level, burns experienced by a person can be categorized as follows:

  • Minor burns

    Minor burns can be referred to as first-degree burns, which are characterized by a wound area of ​​no more than 8 centimeters (cm). In addition, this type of wound covers only the outermost skin and is considered not serious. Symptoms that appear, usually include pain, redness, and swelling. An example of a first degree burn is a burn on the surface of the skin that is burned by direct sunlight.

  • moderate burn

    Moderate burns are second-degree burns that are characterized by blisters, very sore and reddened skin. This type of burn requires emergency medical care, especially if the burn extends to an important area, such as the face, hands, buttocks, groin or thighs and legs. Some 2nd degree burns take more than three weeks to heal.

  • Severe burns

    Severe burns or third-degree burns are serious burns, because they damage all layers of skin and fat, even to the muscles and bones. Fire victims who experience severe burns may experience carbon monoxide poisoning, shortness of breath or scorched skin.

How to Overcome Minor Burns

Minor burns can generally be treated at home, but must be done the right way. The things that need to be considered when providing first aid for minor burns are:

  • Burns need to be refrigerated to relieve pain. You can place a towel that has been soaked in cold water on the wound.
  • Avoid popping blisters because there is a risk of infection.
  • Wash with clean running water if there are blisters that burst on their own.
  • If the pain is unbearable, the patient can take pain relievers, such as paracetamol, or other painkillers as directed by the doctor.

Moderate Burn Treatment

Treatment of moderate burns at home is generally almost the same as for minor burns. It's just that, in certain conditions, moderate burns should be checked by a doctor.

The following are treatments for moderate burns:

  • Cool the burn area with a towel for about 15 minutes.
  • Avoid popping blisters because there is a risk of infection.
  • See a doctor if you have a large blister, if the burn is extensive, or if there is an infection that causes swelling, redness, and pain that gets worse. Your doctor may prescribe painkillers or antibiotics.

You also need to see a doctor immediately, if the burn affects certain areas such as the face, hands, buttocks, groin, or legs.

Steps for Helping Severe Burns

As a form of first aid for severe burns, immediately rush the victim to the emergency unit (ER) or call the nearest hospital emergency room ambulance. While waiting, you can do something to help the victim, for example:

  • Keep the victim away from sources of fire or areas adjacent to fire or smoke.
  • Make sure the victim can breathe smoothly.
  • If necessary and if possible, give rescue breathing.
  • Remove any jewelry, belts, or accessories that are wrapped around the burned area.
  • To prevent hypothermia, do not apply cold water to extensive burns. This is also to prevent a drop in blood pressure and blood flow drastically.
  • Cover the burn with a clean, cool, soft cloth or bandage.
  • Avoid applying medication or ointment to the burned area beyond the doctor's advice. In addition, applying ice or applying butter can actually harm the burned skin tissue.
  • Lay the patient with the legs raised at least 40 cm.
  • Use blankets or coats on the patient's body.

In addition to understanding first aid for burns, it is important to take preventive steps. It is recommended to keep a fire extinguisher at home. If you live in an apartment, make sure the building is equipped with an alarm that sounds in the event of a fire. Keep children away from fire and unattended hot water.