First Aid for Moderate Burn Injury

Injury from exposure to fire or hot objects can be very painful. Exposed skin can blister and even burn if exposed to high temperatures. Cells that come into contact with the heat will die. Therefore, burns should receive treatment quickly.

Moderate burns or second degree burns are burns that cause damage to the lining under the skin. Examples are excessive sun exposure, hot fluid and sparks from gasoline or other materials.

By Stanley M. Zildo as quoted from his book 'First Aid, First Aid and How to Correct Handling of Emergency', the symptoms of second-degree burns in the form of skin redness, blistering, swelling that does not go away for a few days and the skin looks moist or muddy.

In the event of such burns, immediately do the following:

1. Sprinkle cold water or water ice on the injured area or give compress using a small towel. Can also use the previous handkerchief dipped in water.

2. Dry the wound using clean towel or other soft material.

3. Cover with a sterile bandage to prevent infection.

4. Lift the injured arm or leg higher than heart organs.

5. Seek immediate medical attention if the victim suffered burns around the lips or difficulty breathing.

6. Do not attempt to deflate the blister wound or applying oils, sprays or other ingredients without the doctor's knowledge.