5 Burns and Thermal Injuries Free Online FlashCards

What can cause a burn?

Burns can be caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, or radiation.

What are typical signs of a superficial burn?

A superficial burn affects the outer skin and is often red, dry, and painful, without blisters.

What distinguishes a partial-thickness burn?

A partial-thickness burn affects deeper skin layers and may be red or mottled, swollen, blistered, and very painful.

What defines a full-thickness burn?

A full-thickness burn destroys the full depth of the skin and may reach tissue beneath it; the skin may look white, brown, or charred.

Can a burn’s appearance alone reliably show its severity?

No. Appearance alone cannot reliably show severity; a small-looking burn may be dangerous because of its location, cause, or associated injuries.

What is the first priority at a burn scene?

Do not approach an unsafe scene, touch a live electrical source, or contact an unknown chemical. Call emergency services if the scene is unsafe.

What should you do with clothing or jewelry near a burn?

Remove hot or smoldering clothing and nearby tight items, such as rings, if possible; do not pull away anything stuck to the skin.

How should first aid differ for dry and liquid chemical burns?

Brush dry chemical powder away before flushing. For a liquid chemical, use plenty of running water, avoid exposing yourself, and follow emergency responders’ instructions.

How should you cool a thermal burn?

Cool a thermal burn promptly with clean, cool running water, aiming for about 20 minutes when practical. Do not delay emergency care to finish cooling.

How can you reduce hypothermia risk while cooling a burn?

Cool only the burned area and keep the person warm, especially if the burn is large or the person is a child, to reduce hypothermia risk.

Why should ice not be used on a burn?

Do not use ice or freezing water; they can worsen tissue damage.

How should you protect a burn after cooling it?

After cooling, loosely cover the burn with a clean, dry, non-adherent dressing or cloth. Do not break blisters or apply butter, oils, or creams as first aid.