Welcome to our Burnshield blog, where we shed light on an everyday concern that can catch us off guard – burns. A burn is a type of injury that occurs when the skin or other tissues of the body are exposed to heat, electricity, chemicals, or radiation. This damage can lead to pain, swelling, and in severe cases, more significant complications. Burns are categorised based on their severity, ranging from Superficial Partial Thickness (first-degree) burns, which affect only the outer layer of the skin, to Full Thickness (third-degree) burns, which extend into deeper tissues.
Understanding the causes, symptoms, and appropriate first aid measures for burns is crucial for effective management and minimising long-term consequences. Whether caused by a common kitchen accident, exposure to the sun, or a more serious incident, burns necessitate prompt attention and care to facilitate the healing process and prevent complications. Read below and watch the video, as we explore the world of burns and equip ourselves with the knowledge to respond effectively when it matters the most.
Causes of Burns
Burns can result from various sources, each presenting its unique challenges. Common causes include exposure to heat, scalding liquids, electrical currents, chemicals, and even prolonged exposure to the sun. Being aware of these potential hazards is the first step towards preventing burns in our daily lives.
70% of burns occur in the home. Along with adult women, children are particularly vulnerable to burns. Burns are the fifth most common cause of non-fatal childhood injuries. While a major risk is improper adult supervision, a considerable number of burn injuries in children result from child maltreatment.
Symptoms to Watch For
Identifying the symptoms of burns is crucial for timely intervention. Knowing how to recognize these symptoms helps in assessing the severity of the burn and seeking appropriate care.
- First-degree burns typically manifest as redness and mild pain, affecting the outer layer of the skin.
- Second-degree burns go deeper, causing blistering and more intense pain.
- Third-degree burns, the most severe, may result in charred skin and numbness due to damage to deeper tissues.
First Aid Measures
Quick and effective first aid can significantly impact the outcome of a burn injury. For minor burns, such as those caused by hot surfaces or liquids, cool running water can be applied to the affected area for about 10-20 minutes or apply Burnshield. Burnshield Emergency Burn care can be used on all types of burns. It immediately cools and soothes the burn by absorbing and dissipating the heat. In the case of more severe burns, it’s crucial to prioritise safety. Call emergency services immediately and apply Burnshield. Elevating the burned area, if possible, can help reduce swelling.
Do’s & Don’ts
In an emergency situation ensure your own safety before attending to the patient. Only then remove the patient to safety.
Remove tight or restricting items from the burnt area for example clothing and jewellery.
Do not remove anything firmly stuck to the burnt area unless it is still hot or smouldering
Do not break blisters or disturb the burnt area
Do not apply toothpaste, fats, grease, butter or oil-based items onto the burnt area
Do not use ice or ice water on a burn as this can cause further damage
How to Apply Burnshield
When using a Burnshield Hydrogel apply the gel to the wounded area and go beyond the surface area of the burn. Secure with a non-absorbent bandage or plaster. Meet the range here
When applying a Burnshield Dressing, open the foil package, remove the dressing and apply the dressing to the wounded area and beyond the surface area of the burn. Secure with a non-absorbent bandage. See the full foam range here
Keep applying the Burnshield Hydrogel to avoid the wound from dehydrating for 24 to 48 hours. The hydrogel can be applied on top of the dressing and secured.
Benefits of using Burnshield
- Burnshield cools and soothes the burn
- minimises skin damage
- safe for use on children
- non-toxic
- non-irritant
- non-adherent
- has a shelf life of five years from date of manufacture
Prevention of Burns
Burns are preventable. To name just a few, there are several recommendations for individuals, communities and public health officials to reduce burn risk.
- Enclose fires and limit the height of open flames in domestic environments.
- Promote safer cookstoves and less hazardous fuels and educate regarding loose clothing.
- Apply safety regulations to housing designs and materials and encourage home inspections.
- Improve the design of cookstoves, particularly with regard to stability and prevention of access by children.
- Lower the temperature in hot water taps.
- Promote fire safety education and the use of smoke detectors, fire sprinklers and fire-escape systems in homes.
- Promote the introduction of and compliance with industrial safety regulations, and the use of fire-retardant fabrics for children’s sleepwear.
- Avoid smoking in bed and encourage the use of child-resistant lighters.
- Promote legislation mandating the production of fire-safe cigarettes.
- Improve treatment of epilepsy, particularly in developing countries.
- Encourage further development of burn-care systems, including the training of health-care providers in the appropriate triage and management of people with burns.
- Support the development and distribution of fire-retardant aprons to be used while cooking around an open flame or kerosene stove.
In this blog, we’ve covered the essentials of burns – their causes, symptoms, and the crucial first aid measures to employ. Armed with this knowledge, we can approach burn incidents with confidence and competence, ensuring a quicker recovery and minimising long-term effects. Stay informed, stay safe, and share this information with your loved ones to create a safer environment for all. Have peace of mind with Burnshield nearby
References
- Recent Trends in Burn Epidemiology Worldwide: A Systematic Review. Burns. 2017 Mar; 43(2): 249–257.
- Navigating Burns: Causes, Symptoms, and First Aid Essentials prompt. ChatGPT, 5 February 3.5, OpenAI, chat.openai.com
