First aid for burns

Definition of burning:
It is tissue damage resulting from exposure of the skin to burning by fire or prolonged exposure to radiation
The sun or any other radiation, in addition to contact with burning surfaces, or chemicals.

First degree (mild) burns:
First aid procedures:
do (√):
– Cooling the burn to help calm the pain by placing the burnt area under water
Running from the tap and moderately cold for 10 to 15 minutes to relieve pain.
– Removing accessories (such as: rings, watches, or belts), if any, or removing shoes or
Any clothing gently and quickly, before the area swells.
Cover the burn area with a damp bandage or a cool clean cloth to reduce the risk of burns
infection.
Take a pain reliever, if necessary, to relieve pain.
Seek help immediately if the burn is severe and extends to large areas, or if you notice burns
Signs of infection such as increased pain, redness, and swelling.
Don’t (X):
– Do not try to touch the bubbles resulting from the burn.
Do not apply any ointments or use butter, toothpaste and other treatments on the skin
cremation.
Do not use ice directly on the burnt area.

Second degree burns:
First aid procedures:
do (√):
Protect the injured person from harm.
Remove jewelry, belts, etc., especially around burnt areas for example
the neck.
Take a pain reliever, if necessary, to relieve pain.
Cover the burn area with a damp bandage or a clean, cool cloth.
Cover open blisters with a dry, sterile bandage.
Don’t (X):
Remove burnt clothing stuck to the skin.
Cover the burn with an adhesive bandage.
– Putting large burn areas inside cold water to avoid shock
for the injured.
Use ice directly on the burnt area.
Applying any ointments, butter, toothpaste, or other remedies to
cremation.
– Touching or opening the bubbles resulting from the burn.
– Putting thin cotton on the affected area, which may irritate the skin.

Third degree burns:
It is considered one of the most dangerous burns, as it includes all layers of the skin, down to the fat, and it may be affected
muscle.
First aid procedures:
do (√):
Contact the Red Crescent immediately, and take the following measures until it arrives:
Check the patient’s vital signs, such as breathing.
Protecting the injured person from harm, by keeping him away from flammable materials, smoke or
heat sources.
Elevate the affected area above the level of the heart, if possible.
Cover the burn area with a damp bandage or a clean, cool cloth.

Don’t (X):
Remove burnt clothing stuck to the skin.
– Putting large burn areas inside cold water to avoid shock
For the injured (a sudden drop in body temperature).
Cover the burn with an adhesive bandage.
Applying any ointments, butter, toothpaste, or other remedies to
cremation.
Putting thin cotton on the affected area, which may irritate the affected area.

Source: Saudi Ministry of Health