Essential FAQs on Treating Burns: What to Do After a Scald Injury

Some questions about scald injuries?

My mother was scalded by hot water a few days ago, with large areas of burns on the inner sides of both thighs, and the left leg is more severely affected.
The surface is reddened, with many large blisters, and there are dark areas that may be blood vessels or something else.
I would like to ask the following questions:
1.
Since it has been a few days and she went to the emergency room at the time of the injury, does she need to return to the hospital for a follow-up? Given the size of the blisters, will going back to the hospital cause them to burst? Will she need to receive anti-inflammatory injections during the follow-up visit?
2.
Is it true that oily ointments should not be applied to the wounds? What should be applied to promote faster healing and minimize scarring? Currently, she is cleaning the wound at home with cotton soaked in saline solution, applying medication, and then covering it with gauze and securing it with a bandage.
Is this approach correct?
3.
I have heard that consuming high-calorie foods can help with wound healing.
Is this true? What specific foods should she eat?
4.
Are there any particular precautions she should take during this time?
5.
Is it permissible to puncture the blisters? If a blister accidentally bursts at home, how should it be managed?
6.
Approximately how long will it take for the wound to heal completely?
Thank you very much in advance!

Xiao Xuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/08/07

Dr. Lu Daokuan reply Plastic Surgery

Burns require daily dressing changes at the hospital, as self-treatment carries a high risk of infection.
Blisters should only be punctured after complete disinfection; oily ointments should not be used.
It is not always necessary to receive anti-inflammatory injections; it is preferable to use burn ointment (silver sulfadiazine).
It is important to consume plenty of protein and vitamin C.
Second-degree burns typically take about 10-20 days to heal.
To minimize scarring, topical vitamin C can be applied.

Reply Date: 2006/08/07

More Info

When dealing with burn injuries, especially significant ones like the second-degree burns your mother has sustained, it is crucial to follow proper care protocols to ensure optimal healing and minimize complications. Here are answers to your questions based on medical knowledge and best practices for burn treatment:
1. Follow-Up Care: Since your mother has large blisters and significant redness, it is advisable to return to the hospital for a follow-up appointment. The presence of large blisters indicates a deeper injury, and a healthcare professional should evaluate them to prevent infection and assess the healing process. During the visit, they may drain the blisters if necessary, but this should be done by a medical professional to avoid complications. They may also administer antibiotics if there are signs of infection or if the burn is extensive.

2. Topical Treatments: It is generally not recommended to apply oily ointments or creams on burn wounds, especially in the acute phase. Instead, your mother should use a topical antibiotic ointment that is specifically designed for burn care, such as silver sulfadiazine or a hydrogel dressing, which can help keep the wound moist and promote healing. The current method of cleaning the wound with saline and covering it with a sterile dressing is appropriate. Ensure that the dressing is changed regularly to prevent infection.

3. Nutrition for Healing: Nutrition plays a vital role in wound healing. A diet rich in protein, vitamins (especially Vitamin C and Vitamin A), and minerals (like zinc) can support recovery. Foods such as lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables should be included. High-calorie foods can be beneficial, especially if your mother is experiencing increased metabolic demands due to the injury. However, it is essential to maintain a balanced diet rather than focusing solely on high-calorie foods.

4. General Care Tips: It is important to keep the burn area clean and dry. Avoid exposing the burn to direct sunlight, as this can lead to pigmentation changes and scarring. Encourage your mother to stay hydrated, as fluids are essential for healing. Monitor the burn for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pus, or fever.

5. Handling Blisters: It is generally advised not to intentionally break blisters, as they serve as a natural barrier against infection. If a blister accidentally breaks, clean the area gently with saline, apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover it with a sterile dressing. If there is significant drainage or signs of infection, seek medical attention.

6. Healing Time: The healing time for second-degree burns can vary based on the severity and size of the burn. Typically, second-degree burns can take anywhere from 2 to 3 weeks to heal, but larger burns may take longer. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider can help monitor the healing process and address any complications that may arise.

In summary, it is crucial to seek medical advice for proper evaluation and treatment of your mother's burns. Following the recommended care protocols, maintaining good nutrition, and monitoring for signs of infection will significantly aid in her recovery. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice tailored to her specific situation.

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