Causes of Burns
Name three causes of burns
Thermal burns, chemical burns, electrical burns, radiation burns
What are the three degrees of burns based on depth?
Superficial (First-degree), Partial-thickness (Second-degree), and Full-thickness (Third-degree)
What is the first step when treating a burn?
Ensure scene safety
Why are children at a high risk for hypothermia?
Greater loss of fluids
What percentage of body surface burned is considered critical for a child or elderly person?
More than 10% for partial or full-thickness burns.
Which kind of burn can lead to cardiac arrest
Electrical burns
What are the signs of a full-thickness burn?
Charred, leathery, or white appearance; can be painless due to nerve destruction or extremely painful.
When treating a thermal burn, how long should you cool the burn for?
10+ Minutes
Why do children suffer burns that are more severe and deeper than adults.
Children have thinner skin
What type of burn requires immediate medical attention even if it looks minor?
Electrical burns, due to internal damage.
When you get a sunburn, what type/cause of burn?
Radiation burn
What tool is used to estimate the extent of burns on an adult?
Rule of Nines
When treating an electrical burn, what do you need to look out for?
Entry and exit wounds
How can you determine if a burn is from abuse?
Look for distinct patterns
Why are inhalation burns life-threatening?
They can cause airway swelling and fluid buildup in the lungs, leading to respiratory arrest.
What treatment should follow after a chemical burn?
Remove chemicals immediately and flush affected area for 20 minutes
How is burn extent determined for pediatric patients?
The Lund-Browder Diagram is used, since children have larger head proportions.
When caring for a radiation burn, how do you prevent peeling?
Apply Moisture
What causes a patient to go into shock after getting a burn?
Loss of fluid
What are the signs that a burn victim should be transferred to a burn center?
Partial- or full-thickness burns covering >10% (kids & elderly) or >2% (others), burns to face/hands/genitals, circumferential burns, electrical/chemical/inhalation burns, or pre-existing conditions.
What characteristics distinguish superficial and deep partial thickness burns?
Superficial burns typically are painful, hair will be present and mottling and blisters will be present. For deep burns, it may or may not be painful, may be moist or dry, may or may not turn white when touched.
Why are burns to the face, hands, feet, and genitals considered critical?
These areas have high infection risk and can lead to loss of function.
Why should you never apply ice directly to a burn?
It can cause further tissue damage by restricting blood flow.
List five complications of burns:
Shock, infections, hypothermia, scarring and loss of function, respiratory issues.
Why should burns on joints receive special attention?
They can cause mobility loss due to scarring and contractures.