Tips for Burn Wound Care at Home and What to Do

Tips for Burn Wound Care at Home

Burn injuries are one of the most common forms of injury. They are classified into three types: first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree. First-degree burns are the most superficial and usually heal within a few days. Second-degree burns are deeper and can cause more extensive damage to the skin, reaching the dermis layer in the middle.

Third-degree burns are the most serious and can cause extensive damage to the skin, flesh, and underlying tissues down to the fat. Here are some tips for treating burn injuries with burn wound care at home.

How to Know When to go to the Doctor

Many burns will heal on their own; but if you have severe pain, swelling, redness, or blistering, or if the burn doesn't heal within a week or two, you should go to the hospital. If the injury is more than second-degree, or if you can't stop the bleeding, you should go to the hospital immediately.

Too Much Pain

If you experience pain that is severe enough to keep you from doing normal activities, you should go to the hospital. Even if you are experiencing moderate pain, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.

No Pain is a Bad Sign

If there is no pain, that may be a bad sign. Deep burns often have no sensation, they will have a pale white or yellow color, and they are often drier than a less severe burn. If you have no pain, it's time to visit a doctor.

Leave the Ice, Use Plastic Wrap Instead

Putting ice on the wound is a bad idea but running cold water over it is a good idea. If you are going to see a professional, wrapping it in plastic wrap will keep it protected from infection. It also protects the nerves - if they are exposed to air, it can be quite painful.

Keep the Wound Clean

Wounds that are not cleaned will become infected. Clean the wound with soap and water, then wrap it in a bandage.

Monitor Healing Closely Every Day

If you can, make a habit of checking on the wound every day. This will help you track the healing process and make sure that it is progressing as expected.

When Burn Wound Care at Home Isn't Enough, Contact Alliance Home Care VNA

Many burn wounds are small enough that home care can provide satisfactory results. However, if the wound is more than second-degree, or if it doesn't heal on its own, you should seek professional medical treatment. Alliance Home Care VNA can provide you with the proper burn wound care at home in accordance with your medial provider’s instructions thanks to our professional visiting nurses.

Contact us today for a free in-home estimate for your care needs.