First Aid for Burns in Australia: Essential Treatment Guidelines and Tips
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First aid for burns requires simple actions, delivered quickly. Burn injuries are among the most painful and potentially devastating traumas one can suffer and in Australia, thousands face major burns that require medical treatment each year. Effective first aid not only alleviates immediate discomfort but also significantly impacts the healing process and outcomes. This comprehensive guide provides essential protocols and practical tips to manage burns effectively, from minor irritations to severe injuries.
What are Burns and How Do They Occur?
Burns can occur in a variety of ways, including through direct contact with flames, exposure to UV rays, scalding from hot liquids, coming into contact with electrical currents, lightning strikes or harmful chemicals.
The 3 Categories of Burns
First Degree Burns:
A first degree burn is a superficial burn where only the outer layer of skin (epidermis) is affected. The symptoms include redness and minor inflammation, without blisters.
Second Degree Burns:
These affect both the epidermis and the second layer of skin (dermis). The burn area will appear red and may peel or blister, exhibiting swelling along with the leakage of clear or yellowish fluid from the skin. This site is typically associated with severe pain.
Third Degree Burns:
This type of serious burn impacts both the outer and inner layers of skin, and it reaches the tissue underneath. The skin in the affected area often looks black or charred, and you might see white, exposed fatty tissue. In cases of extremely deep burns, they can extend to the muscle or bone beneath. Usually, nerve endings are destroyed in the area of a full-thickness burn, so surprisingly, there might be little to no pain right at the site of the injury. However, any nearby partial thickness burns nearby will likely be quite painful.
Common Causes of Burns
Burns can occur from a variety of sources, which are often found in everyday environments:
- Domestic: Cooking accidents, such as oil splashes or contact with hot appliances.
- Industrial: Exposure to chemicals or electrical equipment.
- Natural: Sunburns or fires.
Immediate Actions: What to Do When a Burn Occurs
Immediate Actions:
The first step in burn first aid is to ensure the safety of both the affected person and the area by removing them from the source of the burn. Quickly take off any contaminated clothing or jewellery, but be careful not to pull off anything that is adhering to the burnt skin.
Calling for Help:
Without delay, call emergency services (000) for any chemical burns as they can lead to severe injuries. Additionally, contact the Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26) for specific advice if a chemical is involved.
Flushing the Burn:
It’s crucial to start rinsing the affected area with plenty of cool running water immediately. Continue this for at least 20 minutes, and up to an hour if necessary, until the pain subsides. If the eyes are involved, gently flush the affected eye(s) with water for as long as can be tolerated to ensure thorough cleaning.
Covering the Burn:
After flushing, gently cover the burn with a clean dressing or plastic wrap. A second-degree burn should be kept covered for several days. Dressings should be changed daily to check for signs of infection and ensure a clean environment while the burn heals.
Elevating the Burn:
Elevating the burned area above the heart level reduces blood flow and swelling, which helps in reducing throbbing pain. This happens because elevation helps prevent fluid from accumulating in the affected area, which not only eases pain but can also speed up the healing process. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can also help manage the discomfort.
Complications from Severe Burns
When someone suffers from severe burns, they’re not just dealing with the immediate pain; there are numerous complications that can arise, making their recovery more difficult. One of the most critical issues is lung damage. This often results from inhaling smoke during the incident, which can severely affect breathing.
Another significant concern is hypovolemia. This condition involves a dramatic loss of fluids through the damaged skin, potentially leading to shock if not quickly addressed. Moreover, as the skin’s ability to regulate body temperature is compromised, hypothermia becomes a real risk, especially in environments that are not temperature-controlled.
Infections are perhaps the most common complication. Burned areas are incredibly vulnerable to bacteria and other pathogens, making diligent wound care a top priority for healthcare providers and caregivers.
A major burn involves more than 20 percent of an adult’s total body surface area or more than 10 percent for children. These are medical emergencies. Immediately cool the burned areas with cold water and call for an ambulance by dialling triple zero (000). A cool or lukewarm shower can be the most effective method to cool serious burns or large burns quickly.
Learn First Aid for Burns
Proper first aid for burns is crucial for effective healing and recovery. By following these essential guidelines and seeking professional help when necessary, individuals can significantly improve outcomes for burn injuries. Always prioritise safety and be prepared to act promptly in case of a burn emergency.
Skills Training College offers nationally recognised first aid training that is flexible and affordable. These courses equip individuals and professionals with the necessary skills to provide effective burns first aid, emphasising practical knowledge and compliance with Australian health guidelines.
Our HLTAID011 Provide First Aid course is a comprehensive training program designed to arm you with essential skills for handling emergency situations confidently. Throughout the course, you’ll learn how to deliver first aid for burns and other wounds, use an Epi-Pen correctly, and appreciate the crucial role of the recovery position. You’ll also pick up vital skills in basic emergency life support and learn how to communicate effectively with emergency response teams over the phone.
Enrol today and make sure you’re prepared for any first aid situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Burns Blister Immediately?
Not all burns blister immediately. Minor burns such as first-degree burns typically do not blister but cause redness and minor pain. Second-degree burns often blister soon after the injury as the damage extends beyond the top layer of skin, causing fluid accumulation under the skin.
What Should You NOT Do to a Burn?
Applying ice to a burn is not advisable, as it can cause further damage to the skin. Butter or oils should not be used on burns, as they can trap heat and worsen the injury. Breaking any blisters that form is not recommended, as this can increase the risk of infection. Avoid using adhesive dressings that may stick to the burn. Over-the-counter creams and ointments should not be applied without medical advice, as they may not be appropriate for all types of burns.
What Do Professionals Use to Treat Burns?
In cases of more severe burns first aid, medical professionals might administer intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration and maintain blood pressure. They may also use specialised dressings or ointments to promote healing and prevent infection. In some instances, surgical intervention, such as skin grafts, might be necessary to repair damaged tissue.
