Heat In The Kitchen Can Lead To Burns
The kitchen is the location for whipping up amazing meals, but there is a risk of developing an injury. Burns are perhaps the most common form of injuries that occur while cooking or exposed to fire. The skin can withstand some heat, but a burn injury occurs when skin and tissue are damaged by excessive heat, steam, or chemicals. There are different types of burns that increase in severity. Mild burns can be handled at home, but severe burns need immediate medical attention. Understanding the signs will allow anyone with a burn injury to act and seek appropriate treatment.
Degree and severity matter
There are different types of burns classified by degree and severity. A 1st-degree burn affects the outer layer of the skin, causing mild to moderate redness and pain. A 2nd-degree burn is more severe, going beyond the outer layer of skin. These burns cause blistering, severe pain, and redness. A 3rd-degree burn is by far the most severe and can damage deeper layers of tissue. The skin is charred, appearing white, and can lead to permanent nerve or tissue damage. Burns can also be classified by severity based on the total body surface area (TBSA) and depth of the burn. Doctors will use the rule of nines to quickly assess the severity of the burn, with each major body part representing approximately 9% of the total surface area. The TBSA, along with how deep or damaged the skin appears, should indicate the care and urgency required.
Your initial assessment
When receiving a burn, quickly look at the cause, surface area, and initial symptoms to understand the degree of treatment. Some circumstances require extinguishing flames on the skin or a quick retreat from the incident area. Prioritize safety before addressing the burn. Next, quickly assess the burn by degree and type. Look at the TSBA, symptoms, and depth of the injury. Check for other injuries that may have occurred, administering first aid as needed.
First aid for minor and moderate burns
Minor burns from a pot handle or steam can benefit from immediate treatment and first aid. Hold the affected area under cool, not cold, running water for 10-15 minutes to alleviate pain and reduce swelling. Next, cover the burn with a sterile, non-adhesive bandage or clean cloth to prevent infection. Use painkillers as needed and observe the skin for scarring or infection. Moderate burns may need medical intervention but can be treated before heading to the emergency room. Use the rule of nines to determine if immediate medical response is required. Clean and dress the burn to prevent infection. Secure the burned area and keep the injured person hydrated, then seek medical assistance as soon as possible.
Get the doctor involved
Some burns or injuries require immediate medical attention. Contact emergency services immediately while stabilizing the injured person or oneself as best as possible. These are often burns that have impacted a large TBSA or have significant depth. Some burns affect the face or neck, damaging the airway and limiting breathing. Severe burns to the face, neck, hands, feet, or genitals should be an emergency. Doctors will perform immediate wound care while stabilizing the patient. Surgery is sometimes needed for extensive burns, such as skin grafting. Recovery from severe burns is possible, but physical therapy and pain management may be necessary. Burns can also lead to psychological distress, so appropriate counseling can help.
Assess, then act quickly
Burns are painful injuries that can lead to severe damage to the skin or body. The degree of burn and TBSA are important markers of what treatment is necessary. First aid for 1st degree burns that impact a small surface area is enough. Larger, deeper burns must be addressed by a doctor. Look for the signs and act immediately. Practicing fire safety and kitchen safety minimizes the risk of burns. Manage flammable items appropriately and ensure smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are in place. Be aware of the potential risk to limit damage or injury.
