Figure 1-16.-First-, second-, and third-degree burns.

seriousness of the burn and plays the greatest role in

approach than small areas. To estimate the amount of

the victim's chances of survival.

skin area affected, the extent of burned surface, the

"Rule of Nines" (fig. 1-17) is used. These figures aid

burns may also be classified as first, second,

in determining the correct treatment for the burned

or third degree, based on the depth of skin damage

person.

(fig. 1-16). First-degree burns are mildest. Symptoms

are reddening of the skin and mild pain. Second-

As a guideline, consider that burns exceeding 15

degree burns are more serious. Symptoms include

percent of the body surface will cause shock; burns

blistering of the skin, severe pain, some dehydration,

exceeding 20 percent of the body surface endanger

and possible shock. Third-degree burns are worst of

life; and burns covering more than 30 percent of the

all. The skin is destroyed and possibly the muscle

body surface are usually fatal if adequate medical

tissue and bone in severe cases. The skin may be

treatment is not received.

charred or it may be white or lifeless. This is the most

serious type of burn, as it produces a deeper state of

Minor burns, such as first-degree burns over less

shock and will cause more permanent damage. It is

than 20 percent of the body area and small second-

usually not as painful as a second-degree burn

degree burns, do not usually require immediate

because the sensory nerve endings have been

medical attention unless they involve the facial area.

destroyed.

THERMAL BURNS.-- When emergency

treatment of the more serious thermal burns is

Emergency Treatment of Burns

required, first check the victim for respiratory distress.

burns around the face or exposure to hot gases or

The degree of the burn, as well as the skin area

smoke may cause the airway to swell shut. If facial

involved, determines the procedures used in the

treatment of burns. Large skin areas require a different

burns are present, place the victim in a sitting position

Figure 1-16.-First-, second-, and third-degree burns.