Burn Treatment by Jane Thurnell-Read

Prompt action when someone is burnt can save hours or even days of suffering later and can reduce the chances of disfigurement.

If someone is on fire, you need to stay as calm as you can and take immediate action:

• Put them on the ground and roll them to smother the flames.
• Remove all burned clothing. If clothing sticks to the skin, cut or tear around burned area.
• Remove all jewellery, belts, tight clothing, etc., from over the burned areas and from around the victim’s neck.  It is important that you do this because burned areas swell immediately and any  restrictions can cause further injury.

Types of Burns

There are three types of burns:

• First-Degree Burns: involve top layer of skin, e.g. sunburn.
• Second-Degree Burns: involve the first two layers of skin.
• Third-Degree Burns: penetrate the entire thickness of the skin and permanently destroy tissue.

The level of treatment needed depends on the degree of burning.

Treatment Of First Degree Burns Such As Sunburn And Burns While Cooking

As quickly as possible put the affected area in cool, fresh water until the pain subsides. Alternatively apply cool, wet compresses.  But read this about how to avoid becoming sunburnt in the first place.

If necessary, cover the burn with a sterile, non-adhesive bandage or clean cloth. Do not use any material that can leave lint in the burn. Do not apply ointments or butter to burn; these may cause infection. Homeopathic Urtical cream can be used to help healing in first degree burns. The Bach Flower Rescue Remedy (Five Flower Remedy) or the Emergency Australian Bush Flower Remedy can also help with any shock and distress.

First degree burns usually heal without needing to do anything more, but if the burn covers a large area or the victim is elderly or a small child it is best to also seek medical advice. 

Treatment Of Second Degree Burns

The immediate first-aid treatment is very similar to that for first degree burns, but it is also important to help prevent shock and get prompt medical attention. Laying the victim flat and elevating their feet about 30 cms (12 inches) and then covering them with a coat or blanket can help reduce the chance of severe shock. If there is a possibility of broken bones, etc. putting the victim in this position may not be advisable. Rescue Remedy again can be very useful. If the person is not able to take it in their mouth, you can apply it to the temples and the wrist pulse.

Treatment Of Third Degree Burns

ften the victim will not experience pain at the areas of third degree burn in spite of the horrific nature of the injury. They may still complaion of pain but it will be at the outer edges of the burns or other areas where the burns are first or second degree. The skin may appear charred or have patches that appear white, brown or black, Urgent medical attention should be sought immediately. Meanwhile carry out the recommendations for second degree burns. If the face is burnt, get the person to sit up rather than lie down.  Do not put a pillow under the victim’s head if you suspect that the airways may have been burnt.