Topic : Burn

Prepared by
Ritu Ranee Sarker
Roll : 43
B.Sc. in Post Basic Public Health Nursing
Session : 2020 – 2021
Khulna Nursing College, Khulna
 Burn
Introduction
Burn refers to an injury caused by exposure to heat, chemicals, radiation,
electricity or any other source of high temperature or thermal energy that can
damage the skin or other body tissues. Burns can vary in severity from minor
superficial burns, which affect only the outermost layer of skin, to severe burns
that can affect deeper layers of skin, muscles, bones, and internal organs.
Burns are a common type of injury that can happen in a variety of settings,
including home, workplace, and recreational activities. The severity of a burn is
determined by its depth, size, and location on the body. Burns are usually
classified into three categories: first-degree burns, second-degree burns, and
third-degree burns.
First-degree burns are the least severe and only affect the outermost layer of
skin, causing redness, pain, and swelling. Second-degree burns affect deeper
layers of skin and can cause blisters, severe pain, and swelling. Third-degree
burns are the most severe and can damage all layers of skin and even underlying
tissues, causing a loss of sensation and leaving scars.
Immediate first aid for burns includes cooling the affected area with cool water,
removing clothing and jewelry from the affected area, and covering the wound
with a sterile bandage or cloth. In severe cases, burns may require medical
attention, including pain medication, antibiotics, and surgery. Rehabilitation
may also be required to restore mobility and function to affected areas.

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Definition of Burn
A burn is an injury to the skin or other organic tissue primarily caused by heat
or due to radiation, radioactivity, electricity, friction or contact with chemicals.
Thermal (heat) burns occur when some or all of the cells in the skin or other
tissues are destroyed by: hot liquids (scalds)
Or
Damage to the skin or other body parts caused by extreme heat, flame, contact
with heated objects, or chemicals. Burn depth is generally categorized as first,
second, or third degree. The treatment of burns depends on the depth, area, and
location of the burn, as well as additional factors, such as material that may be
burned onto or into the skin. Treatment options range from simply applying
a cold pack to emergency treatment to skin grafts.

Types of burn
There are several types of burns, classified based on the severity of the injury
and the source of the burn. The most common types of burns include:
1. Thermal burns: These are burns caused by exposure to heat, such as
flames, hot liquids, steam, or contact with hot surfaces.
2. Chemical burns: These are burns caused by exposure to acids, alkalis, or
other corrosive chemicals, which can damage the skin and underlying
tissues.
3. Electrical burns: These are burns caused by electrical current passing
through the body, which can cause severe tissue damage, including
damage to the heart, muscles, and nerves.
4. Radiation burns: These are burns caused by exposure to ionizing
radiation, such as from the sun, X-rays, or radioactive materials, which
can damage the skin and other tissues.

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Burns are also classified based on their severity, with the three most
common classifications being:
1. First-degree burns: These are the mildest type of burn and affect only
the top layer of skin, causing redness, swelling, and pain.
2. Second-degree burns: These affect the top and second layers of skin,
causing blisters, severe pain, and swelling.
3. Third-degree burns: These are the most severe type of burn and damage
all layers of skin and underlying tissues, causing numbness and extensive
scarring.

Signs & Symptoms of Burn

The signs and symptoms of a burn can vary depending on the type and severity
of the burn. Some of the common signs and symptoms include:
1. Pain: Burns can be painful, and the degree of pain can vary depending on
the severity of the burn.
2. Redness: The affected area of skin may appear red or flushed.
3. Swelling: The skin around the burn may be swollen or puffy.
4. Blistering: Blisters may form on the skin, especially with more severe
burns.
5. Peeling skin: The skin around the burn may begin to peel as it heals.
6. Charred or blackened skin: In severe cases, the skin may become
charred or blackened.
7. Shock: Severe burns can cause shock, which can cause symptoms such
as dizziness, weakness, and rapid heartbeat.
8. Difficulty breathing: Burns that involve the airway or inhalation injury
can cause difficulty breathing.
9. Numbness or tingling: Burns can cause numbness or tingling in the
affected area.
10.Scarring: Severe burns can cause scarring, which can be permanent.
It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of these
symptoms or if the burn is severe, covers a large area of the body, or is located
on the face, hands, feet, or genital area.

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Causes of Burn

Burns can be caused by various factors, including:

1. Thermal burns: These are caused by exposure to heat sources such as
fire, hot liquids, steam, and hot surfaces.
2. Chemical burns: These are caused by exposure to chemicals that can
damage the skin, such as acids, alkalis, solvents, and detergents.
3. Electrical burns: These are caused by exposure to electricity, such as
from electrical outlets, power lines, and lightning strikes.
4. Radiation burns: These are caused by exposure to ionizing radiation,
such as from the sun, X-rays, or radioactive materials.
5. Friction burns: These are caused by rubbing or scraping against a hard
surface, such as in a road rash injury.
6. Cold burns: These are caused by exposure to extreme cold, such as from
exposure to ice or freezing temperatures.
7. Thermal injuries from explosions or fireballs: These are caused by
exposure to intense heat and flames from an explosion or fireball.
8. Inhalation injuries: These are caused by inhaling toxic fumes, smoke, or
hot gases from a fire or chemical exposure.

It's important to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of burn injuries,
such as practicing fire safety, handling chemicals safely, wearing protective
gear, and avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures.

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Medical Management of Burn
The medical management of burns depends on the type, severity, and location
of the burn. In general, the goals of burn management are to relieve pain,
prevent infection, promote healing, and minimize scarring. Here are some
common medical interventions used in the management of burns:
1. First aid: For minor burns, first aid measures such as cool water
immersion, covering the burn with a sterile dressing, and taking over-the-
counter pain medications can be helpful.
2. Cleaning and debridement: For more severe burns, the burn wound
must be cleaned and dead tissue removed (debridement) to prevent
infection and promote healing. This can be done with surgical
instruments, a solution of saline and/or antiseptic solution, or enzymatic
debridement agents.
3. Dressing and wound care: Burn wounds are usually covered with a
dressing to protect them from infection and promote healing. The
dressing may be changed regularly to keep the wound clean and to allow
for assessment of healing progress. Various types of dressings may be
used, including non-adherent dressings, hydrocolloid dressings, and
silver-impregnated dressings.
4. Pain management: Burn injuries can be very painful, and pain
management is an important part of burn management. Pain medications
such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or opioids may be used, depending on
the severity of the pain.
5. Fluid resuscitation: In cases of severe burns, fluid loss can be significant
and may lead to shock. Intravenous fluids may be given to restore fluid
balance.
6. Nutrition: Burn injuries can cause increased energy needs and protein
breakdown. Adequate nutrition is important to support healing and
prevent complications.
7. Rehabilitation: After burn wounds have healed, rehabilitation may be
necessary to restore mobility, function, and appearance. This may include
physical therapy, occupational therapy, and cosmetic procedures.

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It is important to seek medical attention for burns, especially for burns that are
large, deep, or involve sensitive areas such as the face, hands, feet, or genital
area.
Nursing Management of Burn
The nursing management of burns is an important aspect of the overall care for
burn patients. Here are some nursing interventions that can help promote
healing and prevent complications:
1. Assessment and monitoring: The nurse should assess the extent and
severity of the burn and monitor vital signs, fluid balance, and wound
healing progress.
2. Pain management: Pain can be severe in burn patients, and the nurse
should provide appropriate pain management to improve comfort and
promote rest.
3. Wound care: The nurse should assist in the cleaning and dressing of
burn wounds, using sterile techniques to prevent infection. The nurse
should also assess the wound for signs of infection or other
complications.
4. Nutrition: The nurse should monitor the patient's nutritional status and
provide guidance on appropriate dietary intake to support healing and
prevent malnutrition.
5. Fluid resuscitation: The nurse should assist in the administration of
intravenous fluids as prescribed to restore fluid balance and prevent
shock.
6. Preventing infection: The nurse should educate the patient on proper
hygiene and wound care techniques to prevent infection. The nurse
should also monitor for signs of infection and administer appropriate
interventions as needed.
7. Psychological support: Burn injuries can be traumatic, and the nurse
should provide emotional support to the patient and family. This may
include listening, counseling, and connecting them with appropriate
resources.

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 8. Rehabilitation: The nurse should assist in the rehabilitation process,
including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and cosmetic
procedures.
Nursing management of burns requires close collaboration with the healthcare
team, including physicians, physical therapists, and other healthcare
professionals. The nurse plays a critical role in promoting healing and
preventing complications in burn patients.
Prevention of Burn
Burns can be prevented by taking some precautions and safety measures. Here
are some tips for preventing burns:
1. Avoid direct contact with hot surfaces or objects: Use protective gear
such as gloves, mitts or pot holders to handle hot objects.
2. Practice fire safety: Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and smoke detectors
installed in your home. Avoid smoking in bed or leaving lit candles
unattended.
3. Be cautious when cooking: Avoid leaving food on the stove unattended
and keep children away from the stove when cooking. Also, keep
flammable objects away from the stove.
4. Avoid exposing children to hot objects: Keep matches, lighters, hot
liquids, and other hot objects out of reach of children.
5. Be careful with electrical appliances: Avoid using damaged or frayed
cords, and unplug appliances when not in use.
6. Practice sun safety: Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen to
prevent sunburn.
7. Be cautious around chemicals: Store chemicals out of reach of children
and wear appropriate protective gear when handling chemicals.
8. Be cautious with fireworks: Avoid using fireworks at home and leave
them to professionals.
9. Use caution around open flames: Keep flammable objects away from
open flames such as candles, fireplaces, and bonfires.

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By following these safety measures, you can prevent burn injuries and keep
yourself and your loved ones safe.

Complication of Burn
Burns can lead to a range of complications, some of which can be life-
threatening. Here are some common complications of burns:
1. Infection: Burn wounds are prone to infection, especially if they are not
kept clean and dressed properly.
2. Hypovolemia: Severe burns can cause fluid loss, leading to low blood
volume and shock.
3. Respiratory distress: Inhalation of smoke or other noxious fumes can
lead to respiratory distress, which can be life-threatening.
4. Scarring: Burns can cause scarring, which can affect both appearance
and function.
5. Contractures: Burn injuries can cause contractures, which are permanent
tightening of the skin and underlying tissues, limiting movement and
causing deformity.
6. Psychological trauma: Burn injuries can be traumatic and lead to
psychological distress, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic
stress disorder (PTSD).
7. Impaired wound healing: Poor wound healing can lead to chronic
wounds, which are difficult to manage and can lead to further
complications.
8. Organ dysfunction: Severe burns can lead to organ dysfunction,
especially in the lungs, liver, and kidneys.

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 9. Delayed complications: Some complications of burns may not appear
until later, such as keloids, chronic pain, and secondary infections.

It is important to seek medical attention for burns, especially for burns that are
large, deep, or involve sensitive areas such as the face, hands, feet, or genital
area, to prevent complications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, burns are injuries to the skin and underlying tissues caused by
heat, chemicals, electricity, or radiation. They can range from minor to life-
threatening, and can lead to a range of complications if not properly managed.
Treatment of burns depends on the severity and location of the burn, and can
involve medical and nursing interventions such as wound care, pain
management, fluid resuscitation, infection control, and rehabilitation.
Prevention of burns involves taking safety measures and precautions to avoid
exposure to heat, chemicals, and other burn-causing agents. By understanding
the types, causes, signs and symptoms, and management of burns, we can help
prevent burn injuries and promote healing and recovery for those who are
affected by them.