English-111
Ms. Bostic
11/28/16
Burns
Burns are caused by several things including heat, friction, electricity, radiation, or chemicals. Burn injuries are categorized by degree; Superficial (first degree), partial thickness (second degree) and full thickness (third degree) (Engel). There are also fourth-degree burns. This type of burn extends beyond the skin into the tendons and bones (Khan and Solan). The severity of a burn is also judged by the amount of body surface area involved. Burns may be caused by a brief encounter with heat greater than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Signs of burns are localized redness, swelling, and pain. The skin may also peel and appear charred and feel numb. Burns may also trigger headaches and fever. …show more content…
First-degree burns are usually cared for at home. Healing for first-degree burns are usually quick depending if you treat them properly. There are certain things you can do so that it heals quicker and takes the pain away. Soaking the burn in water for a few minutes can help calm the pain. Also taking medicine like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relief the pain. You can also apply creams and other ointments like lidocaine with aloe gel to the burned skin (health line). Make sure you don’t use ice as it may damage the wounded area further. Also applying cotton is not recommended as little fiber particles can fall in the wound and make way for infection. Avoid using home remedies like butter and eggs or anything like that as it doesn’t really help the healing process. Since the burn only affects the top layer of the skin, signs and symptoms disappear once the skin cells shed (health line). First-degree burns usually heal within 7 to 10 days usually does not scar. Some first-degree burns that are in the face or other major joint for example; knee, ankle, foot, spine, shoulder, elbow and forearm should be checked by a …show more content…
They cause the most damage to the body, extending through every layer of skin (Khan and Solan). Most people think that third-degree burns are the most painful (Khan and Sloan). The damage that is caused by this type of burn is so severe that there may not be pain due to the extensive nerve damage. Depending on what caused your burn it can exhibit: Waxy and white color, char, dark brown color, raised and leathery texture, blisters that do not develop. Without surgery, these wounds heal with severe scarring and contracture (Khan and Solan). There is no set timeline for spontaneous healing for third-degree burns. Never attempt to self-treat a third-degree burn. Call (911) immediately. When you are in the emergency room raise your injury above your heart; don’t get undressed and try not to let your clothes get stuck on the