Minor Burns and Scalds

Aim:                
To stop the burning
To relieve pain and swelling
To minimise risk of infection

Treatment:
Flood the injured part with cold water for about 10 minutes to stop the burning and relieve the pain.  If water is unavailable, any cold, harmless liquid, such as milk or canned drinks will do.

Gently remove any jewellery, watches or constricting clothing from the injured area before it begins to swell.

Cover it with a sterile dressing, or any clean non-fluffy material.  A polythene bag or kitchen film makes a good temporary covering.

If it’s an arm or a leg – raise it – to stop swelling.

Do not use sticky dressing or strapping, break any blisters or interfere with the injured area, apply lotions, ointments, creams or fats to the area.

SUNBURN
Sunburn can be caused by overexposure to the sun or even a sun lamp. At high altitudes sunburn can occur even on an overcast summer day. Most sunburn is superficial. In severe cases, the skin is lobster red in colour and blistered.

Aim:                
To move the casualty out of the sun
To relieve any discomfort and pain

Treatment:
If there is extensive blistering or any other skin damage you need to seek medical advice. With minor sunburn, cover the burned skin with light clothing or a towel.

Move them into the shade or preferably indoors. Cool the skin by sponging it with cool water or by soaking the affected area in a cold bath or a cool shower for ten minutes.

If the burns are mild, calamine lotion or an aftersun preparation may soothe them.

Encourage frequent sips of cold water.

© The Westover

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