Frequently Asked Questions On Burn Dressings
Burn dressings treat varied types of burns which are:
- First degree or superficial burns - determined through pain, redness, slight swelling and lack of blistering
- Second degree burns - involving damage to the underlying skin layers
- Third degree burns - involving damage to the dermis, surrounding nerves and indicated by waxen skin
- Fourth degree burns - resulting in severe irreparable damage extending from the skin into the flesh
Burns dressings can be used to treat only first degree or superficial burns. For second-degree burns and beyond, only wound dressings prescribed by a clinician should be used.
Follow these steps to change a burn dressing:
- Wash hands
- Arrange for all supplies required in a hygienic area
- Remove the old dressing and dispose of it
- Wash hands again
- Wash the wound with mild soap and lukewarm water using a clean washcloth.
- Wash the area clean of loose skin and crusting
- Dry off the wound surface with a clean towel
- Place ointment dressing on the wound and cover with dry gauze
- Wrap a sterile gauze roll loosely over the dressing and apply tape over the ends securing it
It is advised to change the burn dressing at least once a day. However, you may even require changing it twice a day.
