Burns

Burns vary in depth, size and severity, there is a risk of complications developing, including shock caused by fluid loss. There is also a risk of infection.

Superficial burns:

Affect top layer of skin producing redness of the skin area. Can be very painful but complications are rare.

Partial thickness burns:

Affects top and second layers of skin, It can be red and swollen with blisters, these can be very painful as the nerve endings are exposed and are very sensitive.

Full thickness burns:

Affects all layers of skin down to the muscle, appearing charred or waxy grey.

Cold, clean water is the best immediate care, treat for shock if severe. The burn can be covered with a sterile dressing. For remote worker then cover the sterile dressing with an impermeable layer (cling film or similar) and continue to cool with water.

Chemical burns

Protect yourself and irrigate.

Inhalation injury

If the head, face, neck or chest are burnt the casualty should be assumed to have inhalation injuries. Complications may not be immediately apparent, but can develop several hours after exposure.

Electrical burns

Safety is the immediate priority.

There may be hidden tissue damage

Lightning

With lightning strikes ‘resuscitate the dead’. Lightning can cause cardiac arrest

CPR and AED may be required.