How to treat burns and/or scalds
If this is an emergency, please call 000 immediately.
What is a burn and scald?
If the burn is larger than a 20 cent piece, or deep, seek medical aid.
Burns and scalds are damage to the skin caused by heat. A burn is caused by dry heat and a scald is caused by something wet and hot. Burns can also affect the respiratory system and the eyes.
This guide is regularly updated and aligns with the current edition of Australian First Aid (4th edition, 7/2011)
Signs and Symptoms
Superficial burns
The area is:
- Red
- Very painful
- Blistered
Deep burns
The area is:
- Mottled red and white
- Dark red or pale yellow
- Painful
- Blistered
Full thickness burns
The area:
- Is white or charred
- Feels dry and leathery
- Because the nerves are destroyed, the pain will not be as great as in a superficial burn.
What to do
If the patient’s clothing is on fire
Stop the patient from moving around.
Drop the patient to the ground and cover or wrap them in a blanket or similar, if available.
Roll the patient along the ground until the flames are extinguished.
Manage the burn.
For all burns
Follow DRSABCD.
If the burn is severe or if it involves the airway, call triple zero (000) for an ambulance.
As soon as possible, hold the burnt area under cool running water for 20 minutes.
Remove any clothing and jewellery from the burnt area, unless they are stuck to the burn.
Cover the burn with a light, loose nonstick dressing, preferably clean, dry, non-fluffy material (eg plastic cling film).
Continue to check the patient for shock, and treat if necessary.