The latest five steps for first aid in case of burns are:
I have heard that the latest five steps for first aid in burns are: cool, remove, cover, send...
which is different from the previously known steps of cool, remove, cover, send.
Which one is correct?
Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/10/11
Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology
1.
Rinse: Quickly immerse the burned area in cold water or rinse it under running tap water to rapidly reduce the surface temperature of the skin.
2.
Remove: After thoroughly soaking, carefully remove clothing; if necessary, clothing can be cut with scissors, or any stuck parts can be temporarily left in place.
Avoid breaking any blisters if possible.
3.
Soak: Further immersion in cold water can alleviate pain and stabilize emotions.
However, if the burn area is extensive or the patient is very young, do not soak for too long to prevent a significant drop in body temperature or delay in treatment.
4.
Cover: Use a clean sheet, cloth strips, or gauze to cover the injured area.
Do not apply substances such as rice wine, toothpaste, soy sauce, glue, herbs, or mercurochrome to the burn, as these can hinder wound healing, increase the risk of infection, and affect the assessment and emergency treatment by healthcare professionals.
5.
Transport: Except for very minor burns that can be managed at home, it is best to take the patient to a nearby hospital for further treatment.
For more severe injuries, it is advisable to go to a hospital equipped with a plastic surgery or burn unit.
As for whether to remove clothing or soak first, the priority in burn first aid is to lower the temperature.
Therefore, the decision should be based on which action can reduce the temperature more quickly; there is no strict rule that one must remove clothing before soaking, as indicated by the note that "if necessary, clothing can be cut with scissors, or any stuck parts can be temporarily left in place."
Reply Date: 2001/10/11
More Info
When it comes to treating burns, first aid is crucial in minimizing damage and promoting healing. The latest guidelines for burn first aid have indeed evolved, and it’s essential to understand the most effective steps to take immediately after a burn injury occurs. The traditional steps you mentioned—"cool, remove, cover, and send"—are still relevant, but let’s delve into the latest recommendations and clarify the differences.
Latest First Aid Steps for Burns
1. Cool the Burn: The first and most critical step is to cool the burn. This should be done immediately by running cool (not cold) water over the burn area for at least 10 to 20 minutes. This helps to reduce the temperature of the skin and minimize tissue damage. If running water is not available, you can use a cool, wet compress. Avoid using ice or very cold water, as this can further damage the tissue.
2. Remove Constrictive Items: If the burn is severe, it’s important to remove any clothing or jewelry near the burn site before swelling begins. This helps prevent constriction as the area swells. However, do not remove clothing that is stuck to the burn, as this can cause further injury.
3. Cover the Burn: After cooling the burn, cover it with a clean, non-stick bandage or cloth. This protects the area from infection and further injury. If the burn is large or severe, use a sterile dressing. Avoid using cotton balls or anything that can leave fibers in the wound.
4. Send for Help: If the burn is severe (for example, if it covers a large area, is deep, or involves the face, hands, feet, or genitals), seek medical attention immediately. Call emergency services or have someone take you to the nearest hospital. For minor burns, if they do not improve or show signs of infection, it’s still wise to consult a healthcare professional.
5. Pain Management: While waiting for medical help or after providing initial care, you can manage pain with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, following the dosage instructions on the package.
Clarifying the Differences
The steps you mentioned—"聰泡脫蓋送" (cool, remove, cover, send)—are indeed similar to the latest recommendations. The key difference is the emphasis on cooling the burn immediately and effectively, which is critical in preventing further damage. The phrase "聰泡" (cooling) is particularly highlighted in the latest guidelines, reflecting the importance of this step.
Additional Considerations
- Do Not Apply Ice: As mentioned earlier, ice can cause frostbite and worsen the injury. Always use cool water instead.
- Avoid Home Remedies: Do not apply butter, oils, or other home remedies to burns, as these can trap heat and worsen the injury.
- Monitor for Infection: After initial treatment, keep an eye on the burn for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus. If any of these occur, seek medical attention.
In summary, while the traditional steps for burn first aid are still relevant, the latest guidelines emphasize the importance of cooling the burn immediately and effectively. Always prioritize safety and seek professional medical help for severe burns. Understanding these steps can make a significant difference in the outcome of burn injuries.
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