Burns

Question 1

How do you classify the severity of a burn?

Answer 1

1. Cause or type of burn trauma.
2. Depth (skin layers affected).
3. Extent (expressed as a percentage).

Question 2

What are the different types of burns?

Answer 2

1. Thermal: flame, steam, hot items.
2. Chemical: usually caustic, acids or alkalis.
3. Electrical: lightening or electrical outlets.
4. Intense light: radiant energy from the sun or other sources such as a welding torch.
5. Radiation: specific injury due to exposure to nuclear sources.

Question 3

What is a first degree burn?

Answer 3

Just the epidermis is damaged.

Signs and symptoms: red painful skin.

Treatment: a cool compress.

Recovery time: 5-7 days.

Question 4

What is a second degree burn?

Answer 4

The epidermis and the dermis are damaged.

Signs and symptoms: red painful, swollen skin; blisters.

Treatment: cool area, dry non-stick or moist dressings. Refer to medical care.

Recovery time: 3-4 weeks.

Question 5

What is a third degree burn?

Answer 5

The epidermis, dermis and any underlying tissue can be damaged including the bone.

Signs and symptoms: charred skin, deeper tissues may appear white. Extremely painful or painless initial.

Treatment: treat as an open wound. Refer to medical attention.

Question 6

What is the rule of nines?

Answer 6

Each body segment makes up 9% of the skins surface area.

• Head.
• Chest.
• Abdomen.
• Upper back.
• Lower back.
• Each arm.
• Each leg (anterior and posterior sides makes up 9% each).