First Aid for Burns: Treatment Guide | PulseGuard

Burn Categories

Burns are classified into three categories based on depth:

1st Degree (Superficial)

Affect only the epidermis. Redness, pain, and slight swelling appear. Example: mild sunburn.

2nd Degree (Partial Thickness)

Affect the epidermis and dermis. Blisters, intense pain, and swelling appear. These burns require careful treatment.

3rd Degree (Full Thickness)

Destroy all layers of skin. The skin may appear white, brown, or black. Often painless due to nerve ending destruction. Immediate medical attention is required.

Correct Treatment (What TO Do)

1. Remove the danger: Extinguish flames, disconnect the electricity source, or move away from the chemical substance.
2. Cool the burn: Place cool running water (not ice cold) on the area for at least 20 minutes. This reduces pain and tissue damage.
3. Remove jewelry and clothing: Only if not stuck to the skin. Do this before swelling starts.
4. Cover with sterile gauze: Don't wrap tightly. Use a loose bandage or plastic wrap (cling film).
5. Call for help: For 2nd degree burns larger than the palm, 3rd degree burns, or burns on the face, hands, feet, or genital area.

Mistakes to Avoid

• DON'T apply ice: Can cause frostbite and worsen damage
• DON'T apply butter, oil, or toothpaste: They trap heat and increase infection risk
• DON'T pop blisters: They protect the tissue from infection
• DON'T remove clothing stuck to skin: Cut around it instead
• DON'T use cotton wool: Fibers can stick to the wound

Chemical Burns

In case of a chemical burn:

1. Wear protective gloves
2. Rinse with plenty of running water for at least 20 minutes
3. Remove contaminated clothing during rinsing
4. Call 112 immediately

Electrical Burns

Electrical burns may appear small on the surface but can have serious internal damage. Always seek medical evaluation after electrocution, even if the victim appears fine.

Burn Treatment Training

Pulse Guard includes burn treatment in training programs, with special focus on food service, industrial, and construction environments. Contact us for a customized program.