Burns
What is a first-degree burn, and what layer of skin does it affect?
A first-degree burn affects only the epidermis and causes redness and mild pain.
Explain the difference between a strain and a sprain.
A strain injures muscles or tendons; a sprain injures ligaments.
What is the difference between a closed fracture and an open fracture?
A closed fracture does not break the skin; an open fracture does.
What is hyperthermia, and what are two early warning signs?
Hyperthermia is overheating; early signs include cramps and dizziness.
What steps should be taken immediately after an insect sting?
Remove the stinger, clean the area, apply cold, and monitor breathing.
Explain the difference between a closed wound and an open wound.
Closed wounds do not break the skin; open wounds do.
List two characteristics of a second-degree burn.
Red skin, swelling, blisters, and extreme pain.
What does the acronym RICE stand for, and when should it be used?
Rest, Immobilize, Cold, Elevate; used immediately after injury.
Why is circulation checked below the injury when treating fractures?
To make sure blood flow has not been restricted.
Describe the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Heat exhaustion includes sweating and weakness; heat stroke includes high fever and lack of sweating.
Why should a tick be removed by pulling straight out rather than twisting?
Twisting can cause bacteria to be injected into the body.
Why are puncture wounds more likely to become infected?
They trap bacteria deep inside the tissue.
Why may a third-degree burn sometimes be less painful than a second-degree burns?
Because nerve endings may be destroyed in a third-degree burn.
Why should a joint be immobilized above and below the injury?
To prevent movement and further injury.
Describe how to properly immobilize a fractured limb.
Immobilize the area above and below the injury without moving the bone.
Why is heat stroke considered a life-threatening emergency?
The body cannot regulate temperature, leading to organ failure.
What are two signs of oral poisoning?
Nausea, vomiting, chemical burns, or difficulty breathing.
What is a contusion, and how is it treated?
A contusion is a bruise treated with pressure, cold, and elevation.
Describe the immediate care for a first- or second-degree burn.
Cool the burn with running water and cover loosely with a sterile dressing.
What is a dislocation, and what visible signs might indicate one?
A dislocation occurs when a bone is forced out of a joint; swelling or deformity may be visible.
List two materials that can be used to make an improvised splint.
Boards, magazines, towels, or newspapers.
What are two signs of hypothermia?
Shivering, confusion, slow pulse, or lethargy.
Why should a tourniquet not be used on a snakebite?
It restricts blood flow and worsens tissue damage.
Why are chest puncture wounds especially dangerous?
They can cause a collapsed lung by allowing air into the chest cavity.
What are two things you should NOT do when treating a third-degree burn?
Do not apply ointments and do not remove stuck clothing.
Why should you not attempt to straighten a fractured bone?
Straightening can damage nerves, blood vessels, and tissues.
Why is an open fracture considered a medical emergency?
Due to severe bleeding and infection risk.
Why should caffeinated or alcoholic drinks be avoided when treating hypothermia?
They interfere with the body’s ability to regulate temperature.
Why is it important to remember what a snake looks like after a bite?
Different snakes require different treatments.
List two types of wounds that usually require stitches and explain why?
Gaping wounds and wounds showing muscle or bone because they need closure to heal.
Why do facial burns often require medical attention?
Swelling can block the airway and interfere with breathing.
What is the purpose of applying a cold compress to musculoskeletal injuries?
To reduce swelling and pain.
Why should splints extend beyond the joints above and below a fracture?
To fully stabilize the bone and prevent movement.
Why should a hypothermia victim be rewarmed gradually rather than quickly?
Rapid rewarming can cause shock or heart problems.
Why should vomiting not be induced unless instructed by poison control?
Inducing vomiting can cause further injury or choking.