Burns advice

Burns

Most burns fortunately only affect a very small area of our skin surface. However, they can be very painful and may require specialised treatment.

Contact with a hot dry surface or object, a hot liquid, corrosive substances and electricity will result in a burn to the skin. Swift action following contact with the surface or substance will help to minimise any skin damage.

Treatment

Flushing the burned area under running water and then covering it with clingfilm will reduce the level of pain and minimise blistering.

Most wounds will require dressing with a specialist dressing for a few days.

Aftercare

Your burn has been dressed, and this dressing should remain undisturbed until your next attendance at hospital (or with your own family doctor) unless:

• it becomes accidentally wet
• you experience increasing discomfort after initial improvement
• you feel ill and/or develop a temperature
• Take pain killers regularly as burns can be very painful initially

In which case, you should return to the emergency department earlier than requested.

If you need further advice, please contact the nursing staff of the emergency department on 01223 217 119.