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BURNS

A burn may be defined as dissolution of tissue continuity consequent on thermaldamage.The tissue necrosis usually follows the application of heat.Burns also result from the application of chemicals and electricity.Heat is transferred to the tissues by physical means i.e,conduction from contact with hot solids and liquids,convection of hot gases over the skin,e.gflame,radiationetc

             In the home the heat sources usually involved are those associated with cooking,heating,lighting, and with the habit of cigarette smoking.The skin is the most common organ effected,but the lining of the respiratory and alimentary tracts can also be involved.

Burns are classified into

Superficial burns-epidermis partly destroyed

Dermal-epidermis and part of the dermis is destroyed

Full thickness-deeper structures are involved.

Special type of burn injury include

Smoke inhalation

Chemical burns

Electric burns

Steps to follow with burn emergency

Check whether the airway is clear and patient is able to breathe.Indications of intubation include an unconscious patient,one with deep burns involving face and neck and evidence of burns inside the mouth and throat with stridor and hoarseness.

Obtain a history from the patient or attendants.Establish what happened and when and whether the incident could have caused other traumatic injuries apart from burn injury.

Corrosive chemical burns should be flooded with water.

Estimate the size of burn using a quick method rule of nine and decide whether an iv drip is required or not.

Relieve pain using

Cold water or by fanning a wet burn.

Catheterization of the bladder should be done in cases of burns of more than 25 percent body surface area.

Burn wound treatment includes immunization against tetanus.Antibiotics like pencillin and erythromycin should be used for first 5 to 7 days.

Collagen sheets are useful for first and second degree burns.pain associated with burn dressing can be avoided.

Major burn treatment includes fluid correction ,wound excision and skin grafting.