It is possible to deal with minor burns and scalds through some effective techniques. It is very important to be prepared so as to deal with the condition better. Listed below are few tips which can be tried.
Protect the burnt area from contact
Ensure that the injured person is comfortably seated before giving any first-aid and protect the affected area from contact with any surface. You can otherwise lay the person flat and elevate the feet and the affected areas so as to avoid pressure and friction from any surface. Reassure the person to avoid shock and continue to monitor the personâs vital signs and check if the breathing is shallow and rapid. Do not apply butter or cream on the burnt area and also avoid rubbing with ice. A pain-killer can be given to reduce the pain or an antiseptic spray can be used to prevent infection.Act fast; remove ornaments or restrictive garments from the body, if any
Make sure to remove any ornaments, watches or clothing from the body before swelling begins. Cut the clothing carefully, if necessary, to remove it from the body but do not remove anything which is stuck to the wound or which does not come out easily, as doing this will further damage the skin. Tight clothing can further trap the heat, worsen the burn and also makes it difficult to clearly spot the burnt areas. Do not touch or treat the blisters formed on the skin, as infection may spreadmaking a superficial burn into a moreserious one.Keep the affected area clean and dry.
Contact a healthcare provider, when in doubt without delay
After giving the first-aid, check the circulation in the affected area. If in doubt, then it is necessary to seek medical advice at the earliest. If you not sure of the kind of treatment which can be given at home, then opt for help, as some burns require emergency care like electric burns where tissue damage can occur, burns which are large in diameter, burns on hands, face etc. Meanwhile check airway, breathing, and pulse while emergency help arrives. Some burns can be treated at home but when signs of infection and swelling are seen in the burnt area, then it is better to consult a doctor.
