First aid for a heat burn

Authors: Simulation and Certification Center

Editor: Rednenko V.V.

Clinical situation:

While cooking, your neighbor scalded his hand with boiling water. He called you for help. The victim complains of pain at the site of the burn on the hand, the skin is hyperemic, there are several blisters with transparent contents. You have decided to provide first aid to the victim.

Equipment for the practical skill:

• Simulator.
• Sink with water.
• First aid kit.

The procedure for performing a practical skill

• Start cooling the burn as soon as possible after the injury occurred:
  • flood the burn with plenty of cool tap water, but do not delay removal of the casualty to the hospital;

• • help the casualty sit or lie down;
  • if possible, try to prevent the burned area from coming into contact with the ground.
• Call 103 for emergency help; if possible, get someone to do this while you cool the burn.
• Continue cooling the affected area for at least ten minutes, or until the pain is relieved. Do not overcool the casualty because you may lower the body temperature to a dangerous level.
• Gently remove rings, watches, belts, shoes, and burned or smoldering clothing before the tissues begin to swell. A helper can do this while you are cooling the burn. Do not remove clothing that is stuck to the burn. Do not touch or otherwise interfere with the burn.
• When the burn is cooled, cover the injured area with clean (sterile) wrap to protect it from infection. Apply any dressing very loosely.

• Reassure the casualty. 
• Monitor person’s vital signs – level of response, breathing, and pulse – while waiting for emergency help to arrive