Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Identify First Degree Burns







First-degree burns are the least damaging of all burns.This type of burn affects only the epidermis or outer-most layer of the skin. First-degree burns cause minimal tissue damage. However, any type of burn is still painful and potentially damaging to the skin. A common example of a first-degree burn is a sunburn. Hot water or certain chemicals can also cause first-degree burns. Children and elderly people are especially at risk for complications with a first-degree burn.


Instructions


First-Degree Burns


1. See the skin turn red. Redness at the location of the burn is the first symptom of a first-degree burn.


2. Feel sensitivity and pain at the location of the burn. The burn will be very sensitive to the touch.








3. Look to see if the skin turns white or blanches when pressed. Blanching occurs with first-degree burns.


4. Feel an itching sensation in the area of a burn. Many times the burn will itch, but scratching can be painful.


5. Feel the heat. First-degree burns are often warm to the touch and may even cause a fever.


6. Notice the skin start to peel. First-degree burns will cause the skin to peel off as the burn heals.

Tags: first-degree burn, First-degree burns, burn will, location burn, type burn, with first-degree