Trauma

Frequently Asked Questions

This document is based on the commonly asked questions by the patients
from the Family Physicians

Q.1 What kind of burns do I have and how dangerous are they?
First-degree burns, such as sunburns, only affect the outer layer of the skin, the
epidermis. The burn area is red, slightly swollen and without blisters. They are
characterized by persistent but relatively minor pain and usually heal without
problems. Long-term damage is rare.

A second-degree burn is deeper and involves the epidermis and part of the dermis,
or second layer of the skin. These burns cause redness and swelling, and the area is
Ans. extremely painful. Fluid-filled blisters often form and the skin beneath is pink and
moist; do not remove the blistered skin unless instructed to do so by a physician.
Some second-degree burns may require a skin graft or skin substitute to heal.

A third-degree burn, the most serious of the three levels, extends deeper into the
skin tissues. Common symptoms include dry, leathery, necrotic (dead) skin. The
burned skin may look white or charred. If the burn has destroyed nerve endings,
there may be little or no pain. Third-degree burns need immediate medical
attention and will require a skin graft or skin substitute to heal.

Q.2 What can I do immediately if I get burned?

Treat the area with cool (not cold) water for five minutes or until the pain subsides.
Do not apply ice. Cool water can relieve pain and reduce swelling by conducting
heat away from the skin, which helps prevent blister formation. Dry the wound
Ans. carefully and cover with a dry dressing and go to a burn center immediately for
evaluation. 

Q.3 How long do burns take to heal?

First-degree burns usually heal in three to six days. Second-degree burns usually
Ans. heal in two to three weeks. Third-degree burns usually take a very long time to
heal.

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 Q.4 How do I cleanse my wound?

You can cleanse your wound using normal saline (saltwater) or a special wound
Ans.
cleanser prescribed by your doctor.

If I have diabetes, is it important to keep my blood sugar in control

Q.5 while my wound is healing?

Ans.
Yes, it is very important. High blood sugar can slow down or prevent wound
healing. Diabetes is a risk factor for poor wound healing.

Q.6 Can I get my wound wet in the shower?

Ans. Yes, unless you have sutures (stitches), staples, exposed bone, or your doctor has
advised against it. Make sure you ask before you shower or bathe. If you need to
keep your wound dry, use a garbage bag or some sort of plastic cover to keep it dry
when you shower. Typically, you should not be “soaking” your wound.

References:
https://www.forthealthcare.com/wound-edema-frequently-asked-questions/
https://www.ucihealth.org/medical-services/burn-center/burn-faq