|  | Conditions Treatments | Burns

Military Field Treatment for Burns

The U.S. military reference for field treatment of burns is Field Manual (FM) 4-25.11, First Aid. This source is utilized by the Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force. Methods of treatment are the same as in the civilian community.

  1. Removing the source

    • One of the dangers to the victim as well as the rescuer is not removing the source of the burn before attempting treatment. In many situations, moving the casualty to a safer environment is required.

    Exposing the burn

    • Exposing the burned area is important to help lessen the chance of infection. However, clothing should not be removed if it is stuck to the wound, as it may cause further injury.

    Field dressing

    • The dressing should be as clean as possible. A dirty bandage can introduce infection.

    Precautions

    • To avoid further injury, blisters should not be broken and ointments should not be applied to the burned area.

    Medical assistance

    • As with all injuries, medical attention is critical. Depending on the severity of the burns, the victim can go into shock.

Burns - Related Articles