If the burn victim is a child under 5 years of age, an adult over 70 years of age or a diabetic,
If the burn covers an area larger than the palm of the hand or if it occurs on the face, genitals, hands and feet,
If the burn was caused by a chemical or electrical agent
If blisters or full-fold skin loss is observed in the burn area, the nearest health institution should be contacted quickly
For burns other than these, interventions at home are usually sufficient.
For this, the burned skin should be cooled quickly and direct contact with ice should be avoided during cooling. Direct contact with ice can cause frostbite.
Burned skin should be washed thoroughly with soap and water and rinsed with cold water for 2-3 minutes. Disinfectant solutions such as alcohol, povidone iodine, oxygenated water may delay wound healing and therefore should not be used.
It is sufficient to apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly on the burn after gently drying.
Vaseline will form a barrier layer that prevents water loss from the skin and will provide a moist environment to aid healing. Antibiotic creams should not be used unless recommended by your doctor.
Burned skin can be covered with non-stick dressings and dressings can be changed 2 times a day.
Blistered areas on the burn should not be blistered or peeled off, but left to provide a protective cover over the skin.
During the healing period, the development of redness that exceeds 1-2 cm beyond the burn margins or foul-smelling discharge may be due to an infection, in which case you should seek medical attention.
