BASIC FIRST AID STEPS FOR BURNS

Burns can be among the most serious of common accidents. This is the main reason why it is important to take note and know the things that should be done in cases of burns. Burns carry an associated risk of shock and infection, and can leave bad scars. The dangers for babies and children are especially serious because of the proportionally larger area of the skin being affected by even a minor burn and the increased chance and severity of shock.

Burns may be caused by the sun, by flame or heat, chemicals, electricity, or fiction. Scalds are caused by hot liquids, such as cooking oil or steam. The effects are much the same.

Since burns are considered to be a form of an accident, as to when it can happen is always unexpected. For this reason, it is always better to be prepared of what might take place in cases of burns. Here are some simple first aid steps that can be done for burns.

� Cool the area of the burn by placing it under cold running water. If the burn is too large to hold under a faucet, then immerse it in cold water. If this is not possible because of the nature and location of the burn, then pour cold water over the are. Apply cold water for at least 10 minutes. However, do not apply ice to a burn. If the burn is large or deep, get medical help immediately.
� If the skin has been scalded and the clothing over the scald is still warm, then remove it. The heat retained by the clothing may do further damage.
� If the clothing has been burnt, do not remove it. It will stick to the burn and should be removed only by trained medical personnel.
� If the burn has been caused by chemicals, remove any clothing that may have been soaked with the chemicals. Remember to protect your own hands before handling the clothing.
� If the burn is not serious, apply a sterile dressing. Do not use an adhesive dressing, which may stick to the affected area. Do not use cotton balls, for the same reason. Do not apply any ointment or grease to the burn. It does not help and will just have to be painfully cleaned off later. Do not puncture any blisters.
� If the burn is very severe, try to use a calming tone when addressing the victim. Your reassuring voice may prevent a panic situation.

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Girl Power!
Joanna Vanessa P. Santos
University of the Philippines, Diliman
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