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HEALTH CENTER
GUIDE TO SELF CARE
Burns
Overview
Burns can be
caused by fire, hot surfaces, steam, scalding liquids,
chemicals, electricity, or the sun. The severity of a burn
depends upon the type of “heat” and the duration of exposure to
it.
Signs and Symptoms
1st-degree burns (affect the outer layer of skin)
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Redness, pain, swelling, and sensitivity to touch of the
burned area.
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Burned skin remains intact.
2nd-degree burns (affect both the outer and lower layers of
skin)
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Symptoms of 1st-degree burns but more severe.
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Usually, blisters and/or shiny, weepy, or watery areas.
3rd-degree burns
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White, cooked, or charred-appearing skin.
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Often little or no pain initially, because nerves have been
destroyed.
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More frequent, more severe complications than with 1st- or
2nd-degree burns.
Self-Care Measures
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Cleanse the area gently with mild soap and water.
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Soak the burned area in cold (not ice) water for 10 minutes
to relieve tenderness.
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Don’t use butter, ointments or grease-based products on the
burn.
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Take an OTC analgesic as needed for pain. Ibuprofen is
preferred.
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Don’t break blisters. Cover blistered areas with a dry
dressing that won’t stick to your skin. Change it at least
twice a day—more often, if needed.
Red Flags
Check in with the nurse if there is:
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Any part of a burn appears to be a 3rd-degree burn.
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Any size 2nd-degree burn if you haven’t had a tetanus shot
within the last 5 years or you’re unsure about your tetanus
status.
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Any burn to the head, face, or genital areas or any
2nd-degree or large burn to the hands, especially on the
palms.
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Multiple burned areas or a 1st- or 2nd-degree burn that is
larger than the palm of your hand.
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Signs of infection such as increased redness, pain,
swelling, or a fever above 100.5 degrees F (38 degrees C).
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Yellow or persistent bloody discharge in the burned area.
CALL 911 OR GO DIRECTLY TO AN EMERGENCY ROOM IF ANY OF THE
FOLLOWING OCCURS:
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Burns caused by electricity, especially if there was a loss
of consciousness.
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Burns to your eyes, including those caused by chemicals.
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Burns that are obviously severe and/or over a significant
part of your body.
Go to Health Center Information
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