Florida Burn Injury

Burn Facts & Tips

Each year fire claims the lives of 4000, and injures approximately 25,000 persons in the United States. Fires kill more Americans in one year than all natural disasters combined. An average of 1.9 million fires are reported each year. At least 80 percent of all fire deaths occur in residences (USFA: Facts on Fire).

Types of Burn Injuries

There are several factors used by doctors to determine the severity of a burn injury. These include a patient's age and size, the depth of the burn, and the location of the burn. The severity of burns to children's bodies are calculated differently than adults because the surface area of the head and neck is larger than that of an adult, and their limbs are smaller. Specific treatment of a burn injury should be determined by a physician. Descriptions of the four degrees of burn injuries is addressed below:

• First-Degree Burns

  First degree burns affect the outer layer of skin, called the epidermis. The site of the burn is red, swollen, sensitive to touch, dry, and has no blisters. Long-term tissue damage is rare. Examples of first-degree burns are a mild sunburn or a sudden, brief burst of heat. A first degree burn is usually treated with cold compresses, lotions or ointments, and does not require bandaging. First-degree burns often heal within seven days.

• Superficial Second-Degree Burns

  Superficial second-degree burns involve the epidermis, and part of the deeper layer of the skin, called the dermis. Superficial burns involve only the outermost layer of the dermis. The burn site appears red and blotchy, and has blisters. Second-degree burns are often painful and swollen, and usually heal within three weeks. They can more easily become infected than a first-degree burn and should be cleaned and treated daily with antibiotic ointments, and if a dressing is required it should be changed one or two times daily. Second-degree burns include deep sunburn, exposure to flames, contact with hot liquids, burning gasoline or kerosene, and contact with chemicals.

• Deep Second-Degree Burns

  Deep second-degree burns penetrate more deeply into the skin and destroy all layers of the epidermis and several layers of the dermis. The risk of a deep second-degree burn is infection and scarring. Deep second-degree burns will leave thick or hypertrophic scars. Healing for this type of burn usually takes three to four weeks. Treatment can vary depending on the severity of the second-degree burn.

• Third-Degree Burns

  A third degree burn is the most severe burn classification. It occurs when the burn destroys both the epidermal and dermal layers of skin, and extends down into the subcutaneous tissue. These burn areas are charred of skin and look translucent white in color, and often the skin looks and feels like leather. These burn areas are usually numb due to the amount of nerve endings that are destroyed. If a person is complaining of pain it is usually because of second degree burns. Third-degree burns heal slowly and result in extensive scarring. First aid and treatment for severe burns (second and third-degree) should only be handled by trained professionals as it is critical to the survival and healing of the victim.

Treatment Information

According to the "Burn Survivor Resource Center," if you encounter a severely burned person:

• DO NOT remove burnt clothing (unless it comes off easily), but do ensure that the victim is not in contact with burning or smoldering materials.

• Make sure the victim is breathing. If breathing has stopped or the victim's airway is blocked then open the airway and if necessary begin CPR.

  If the victim is breathing, cover the burn with a cool moist sterile bandage or clean cloth.

• DO NOT use a blanket or towel; a sheet is best for large burns.

• DO NOT apply any ointments and avoid breaking blisters. If fingers or toes have been burned, separate them with dry sterile, non-adhesive dressings. Elevate the burned area and protect it from pressure or friction.

• Take steps to prevent shock. Lay the victim flat elevate the feet about 12 inches, and cover the victim with a coat or blanket.

• DO NOT place the victim in the shock position if a head, neck, back, or leg injury is suspected or if it makes the victim uncomfortable.

• Continue to monitor the victim's vital signs (breathing, pulse, blood pressure).

• DO NOT apply ointment, butter, ice, medications, fluffy cotton dressing, adhesive bandages, cream, oil spray, or any household remedy to a burn. This can interfere with proper healing.

• DO NOT allow the burn to become contaminated. Avoid breathing or coughing on the burned area.

• DO NOT disturb blisters or dead skin.

• DO NOT apply cold compresses and DO NOT immerse a severe burn in cold water. This can cause shock.

• DO NOT place a pillow under the victim's head if there is an airway burn and they are lying down. This can close the airway.

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