Burns are a common injury that can occur in many different ways. Some burns are minor and can be treated at home with first aid. However, other burns are more serious and require immediate medical attention. It is important to know the difference between minor and major burns so that you can get the appropriate treatment.
One type of burn that always requires you to call EMS/9-1-1 is a full-thickness burn. A full-thickness burn is a burn that involves all layers of the skin, including the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous fat. These burns can cause serious damage and can lead to infection, scarring, and even death.
Other types of burns that may require you to call EMS/9-1-1 include partial-thickness burns, chemical burns, and electrical burns. Partial-thickness burns involve only the top two layers of skin, while chemical burns are caused by exposure to chemicals. Electrical burns are caused by exposure to electricity. All of these types of burns can be serious and require prompt medical attention.
When To Call EMS/9-1-1 For Burns
There are several signs and symptoms that indicate that you should call EMS/9-1-1 for a burn. These include:
- The burn is a full-thickness burn
- The burn covers a large area of the body
- The burn is on the face, hands, feet, or genitals
- The burn is causing severe pain
- The burn is infected
Types Of Burns That Require Immediate Medical Attention
Full-Thickness Burns
Full-thickness burns are the most serious type of burn and require immediate medical attention. These burns involve all layers of the skin and can cause serious damage. Full-thickness burns can be caused by contact with fire, hot liquids, or chemicals.
Partial-Thickness Burns
Partial-thickness burns involve only the top two layers of skin. These burns are less serious than full-thickness burns, but they can still be painful and require medical attention. Partial-thickness burns can be caused by contact with hot objects, steam, or chemicals.
Chemical Burns
Chemical burns are caused by exposure to chemicals. These burns can be very serious and can cause damage to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Chemical burns require immediate medical attention.
Electrical Burns
Electrical burns are caused by exposure to electricity. These burns can be very serious and can cause damage to the skin, muscles, and organs. Electrical burns require immediate medical attention.
How To Treat Burns At Home
If you have a minor burn, you can treat it at home with first aid. To treat a minor burn, follow these steps:
- Cool the burn with cool water for at least 10 minutes
- Apply a cold compress to the burn
- Take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Keep the burn clean and dry
When To See A Doctor For A Burn
If you have a burn that is more serious than a minor burn, you should see a doctor. You should also see a doctor if your burn is not healing properly or if you have any signs of infection.
FAQ
What is the most common type of burn?
The most common type of burn is a partial-thickness burn.
What is the most serious type of burn?
The most serious type of burn is a full-thickness burn.
How can I prevent burns?
You can prevent burns by taking the following precautions:
- Be careful when cooking and using hot appliances
- Keep children away from hot objects
- Wear protective clothing when working with chemicals or electricity
What should I do if I get burned?
If you get burned, follow these steps:
- Cool the burn with cool water for at least 10 minutes
- Apply a cold compress to the burn
- Take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Keep the burn clean and dry
- See a doctor if the burn is more serious than a minor burn
Conclusion
Burns are a common injury that can be caused by many different things. It is important to know the difference between minor and major burns so that you can get the appropriate treatment. If you have a burn that is more serious than a minor burn, you should see a doctor. You should also see a doctor if your burn is not healing properly or if you have any signs of infection.