How You Should Treat A Serious Burn | Earth Science

Summary

In this informative video, an emergency medicine doctor shares essential first aid techniques for treating burns, which are common and often painful injuries. Key steps include ensuring safety, cooling the burn under cool water for at least 10 minutes, and covering it loosely with cling film. The doctor dispels common myths about burn treatments, emphasizing what not to use, such as butter and toothpaste. For minor burns, home treatment is sufficient, but larger or severe burns require professional medical attention. This guide equips viewers with crucial knowledge to potentially save lives in emergency situations.

Takeaways

• 🔥 Burns and scalds are common injuries that can be incredibly painful and potentially fatal if not treated properly.
• 🚑 First aid treatment for most burns is similar, regardless of the heat source (steam, flames, hot oil).
• 👨‍⚕️ The first step is to move the person to a safe place and remove any jewelry, watches, or clothing from the affected area, unless it's stuck to the skin.
• 💧 Cool the burn by running it under tap cold water for at least 10 minutes to reduce pain, swelling, and scarring.
• ❌ Avoid using ice, yogurt, butter, oil, cream, or toothpaste on burns, as they can cause further damage or be ineffective.
• 📏 If the burn is smaller than the palm of the patient's hand and superficial, it can be treated at home.
• 🩹 For larger burns or those that are severe, seek professional medical help immediately.
• 🛡️ After cooling, loosely cover the burn with cling film or a clean plastic bag to keep the injury clean and prevent drying out.
• 🧘‍♂️ Stay calm if you encounter a severe burn, and remember to act quickly.
• 📞 If in doubt about the severity of a burn, call emergency services (999) for assistance.

Q & A

What should you do first if someone has a burn?

First, ensure the person is in a safe place and remove any jewelry, watches, or clothing from the affected area, unless it's sticking to the skin.

How should you cool a burn, and for how long?

Run the burn under cold tap water for at least 10 minutes to reduce pain, swelling, and the risk of scarring.

Is it safe to use ice to cool a burn?

No, you should not use ice on a burn as it can cause further damage and result in an ice burn.

What are some common myths about treating burns?

Myths include using yogurt, butter, oil, cream, or toothpaste for burns. These do not help and may worsen the injury.

What should you use to cover a burn after cooling it?

Use cling film or a clean plastic bag to loosely cover the burn, which helps keep the injury clean and prevents it from drying out.

When can a burn be treated at home, and when should you go to the hospital?

If the burn is smaller than the palm of the patient's hand and superficial, it can be treated at home. If it is larger or more severe, you should go to the hospital.

What is the importance of cooling a burn quickly?

Cooling a burn quickly helps reduce pain, swelling, and the risk of scarring, making it a crucial first step in treatment.

What should you do if you encounter a severe burn?

Stay calm, move the person to safety, cool the burn with cold water for at least 10 minutes, cover it loosely, and call emergency services if needed.

Why is it important to avoid tight wrapping of cling film on a burn?

Tight wrapping can restrict blood flow and increase pain. It’s important to lay it loosely to allow for swelling and comfort.

What should you do if you're unsure about the severity of a burn?

If you have any doubts about the severity of the burn, it is best to call emergency services for advice.