BURNS

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR 1ST DEGREE BURNS OR SMALL BLISTERS

  1. Pain Medicine:  For pain, apply cold compresses and take acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) every 4 hours or ibuprofen every 6 hours.
  2. Cleansing: Wash the area gently with an antibacterial liquid soap andwarm water once a day. . Avoid soap unless the burn is dirty. (Reason: soaps can slow healing).
  3. Blisters:  Don't open any small closed blisters - the outer skin protects the burn from infection.
  4. Antibiotic Ointment: For open burns, apply an antibiotic ointment (OTC) and cover it with a  Band-Aid. Change the dressing every other day. Use warm water and 1 or 2 gentle wipes with a wet washcloth to remove any surface debris.
  5. Expected Course:  It will probably hurt for 2 days and peel like a sunburn in about a week.  Fortunately, first- and second-degree burns don't leave scars.
  6. Call Your Doctor If:
    • Severe pain persists for more than 2 hours after giving pain medicine.
    • Burn starts to look infected (pus, red streaks, increased tenderness).
    • Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002

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