First aid: burns and scalds
© DK
Burns and scalds are usually described in terms of the amount of damage to the skin. Seek medical help for any burn on a child. If the burn is large, or deep, take her to hospital.
Superficial burns are the least serious and can result from a minor spillage or touching a very hot surface. Partial-thickness burns are more serious and fluid-filled blisters form on the skin. Full-thickness burns are very serious since all layers of the skin, and possibly nerves, are damaged and fluid loss is high due to weeping of the skin. Seek medical help for any burn on a child. If the burn is large, or deep, take her to hospital.
- Cool the area by running cold water over the affected part of the body for about ten minutes. If there is no water available you can use another cool liquid such as milk.
- Remove or cut away any burned clothing, shoes, or jewellery before the damaged tissue begins to swell.
- Cover the injury with a sterile dressing to protect it from infection. Clean kitchen film makes a good temporary dressing; don't wrap it around the limb.
- Call for medical advice, or an ambulance. You may need to treat her for shock. If she loses consciousness,follow the steps mentioned here.
Warning
- Do not touch the affected area or attempt to burst any blisters that form.
- Don't put lotion or fat on to the area.
- Don't stick a adhesive dressing to a burn.
- Don't cover the burn with a “fluffy” dressing or any cloth that sheds lint.
- Don't remove anything that is sticking to the burn: you may cause further damage to the skin or tissue and introduce infection.
- Don't overcool your child; it could cause hypothermia.
New Babycare
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley
Text copyright © 2009 Miriam Stoppard
Posted 30.06.2010
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