What to do when you get a burn?

When you get a burn, it's important to take immediate action to minimize damage and promote healing. Here are the general steps to take when you get a burn:

1. Stop the burning process:

- Immediately remove yourself or the affected person from the source of heat or heat-causing substance.

2. Cool the burn:

- Run the burn under cool (not cold) water for at least 10-15 minutes. This helps reduce pain and inflammation.

3. Remove clothing and jewelry:

- Carefully remove any clothing, jewelry, or accessories that are in the burned area. However, don't remove anything that is stuck to the burn.

4. Cover the burn:

- Use a clean, non-adherent dressing or a sterile bandage to loosely cover the burn. Avoid using cotton or fuzzy material that may stick to the wound.

5. Elevate the affected area:

- If possible, elevate the burned area above the level of the heart. This helps reduce swelling.

6. Avoid popping blisters:

- If blisters have formed, don't pop or break them. They act as a natural protective layer.

7. Pain management:

- Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help with pain management.

8. Seek medical attention:

- For severe burns, deep burns, or burns involving the face, eyes, or genitals, seek medical attention immediately. You might also need medical care for extensive burns or if the burn shows signs of infection.

9. Infection prevention:

- Keep the burn clean and covered to prevent infection. Avoid touching or scratching the burn.

10. Follow medical advice:

- If you've seen a medical professional, follow their specific instructions and treatment plan for caring for the burn.

11. Watch for signs of infection:

- Monitor the burn for signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, swelling, pus, or a fever. If you notice any signs of infection, seek medical help promptly.

12. Proper healing environment:

- Keep the burn site dry and clean to promote proper healing. Avoid harsh chemicals or excessive rubbing of the area.

13. Patience and care:

- Burn healing can take time. Be patient and consistent with your burn care to ensure proper recovery.

14. Proper hydration:

- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids to support the body's healing process.

Remember that severe burns can be life-threatening and may require immediate emergency medical attention. If you're unsure about the severity of a burn or if symptoms worsen, don't hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for proper treatment and guidance.