Do’s and Don’ts of Burn First Aid

Burns are much more common than you think! In fact, burns are considered one of the most fatal household injuries in the country because of the many opportunities to happen in your home. Think hot liquids, flames, steam, electricity, and even from hot foods like drinks, soups, or microwaved foods. That’s why it’s so important to know how to care for a burn should you receive one at home or in any environment! 

Burn care depends on the severity of the burn. First-degree burns will be easy to take care of at home, but those with second-degree burns or third-degree burns should seek immediate medical attention. However, when it comes to burn first-aid, many people are misinformed on the right things to do to treat your burn. Let’s take a look at some of the Do’s and Don’ts of burn first aid, so you can help your burn heal, not make it worse: 

DO: Run a burn under cool water to lower the temperature of your skin and prevent the burn from getting worse. This may take as long as a half-hour or so. 

DON’T: Use ice or ice water on a burn. Though it may sound tempting, ice and ice water can actually cause serious tissue damage or even frostbite in severe cases!

DO: Treat a first-degree burn with antibiotic ointment and loosely cover with gauze. You may also want to apply aloe vera or cocoa butter after the burn has been cooled to keep the burn moisturized and prevent further pain. 

DON’T: Apply butter to a burn. An old wives tale told us that butter could help us soothe a burn, but the fact of the matter is it may make it worse because it can retain heat. 

DO: Remove any clothing or jewelry that may be near a burn, but try not to peel anything off. Burns may cause swelling, so getting off anything close to the burn will prevent further pain. 

DON’T: Pop or touch any blisters that may form from a burn. Bursting a blister will increase your chances of infection, which is already increased just from having a burn! If you have signs of an infection (discoloration, growth, pus, etc.), seek medical attention. 

DO: Call for medical attention for larger burns or anything worse than a first-degree burn. Third-degree burns, in particular, should not be treated at home, as they may require advanced medical techniques and equipment. 

Rogers Pharmacy has been the source for medical supplies and equipment in the Maryville area for years because of our superior commitment to provide you with the absolute best in product quality and customer service. Our highly trained staff will help you make the best choices for your needs while providing you with friendly service and expert advice. Visit our website to learn more or call us at (660) 562-2300 today!

---

Sources: 

https://www.jeffsampsonlaw.com/practice-areas/burn-injury/dos-and-donts-of-burn-first-aid/   

https://www.ucihealth.org/blog/2018/05/treating-burns 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-burns/basics/art-20056649 

https://urgentcaresouthaven.com/burn-care-at-home-the-dos-and-donts-to-keep-in-mind/