Skill 13: Burns & Scalds
Learning Intention: To equip you with the knowledge to avoid, recognise and treat burns and scalds.
Success Criteria: By the end of this session everyone should be able to: Describe what steps to take to avoid, recognise and treat burns and scalds in a wilderness environment.
Activities: 1.Discussion/Powerpoint: - Likely causes of burns outdoors - Characteristics of a burn/scald - Treatment 2. Scenarios
What are the likely causes of burns & scalds outdoors?
Dry heat (burns) : Fire/Stoves Hot objects Sun Chemicals Electricity
Wet heat (scalds) : Hot liquids Steam
What might you see?
Redness Swelling Blisters Charred skin
First Degree Burns: Redness, inflammation, damage only to outer layer of skin (epidermis) Remember: Broken skin = Infection Risk
Second Degree Burns: Blistering, damage to deeper layers of skin (dermis) Remember: Broken skin = Infection Risk
Third Degree Burns: Skin severely damaged or destroyed, some damage to deeper tissues, serious risk of infection Remember: Broken skin = Infection Risk
What should you do?
What to do with a burn/scald Run under/immerse in cold water (10 mins +) Remove jewellery DO NOT REMOVE clothing stuck to the burn (cut away excess fabric if necessary) Apply sterile dressing, cling film or clean plastic bag Treat for shock ALL BUT THE MOST MINOR BURNS WILL NEED PROMPT MEDICAL ATTENTION
Questions?
Next Session: Skill 14: Practical Scenarios III