Hot liquids and steam account for about 75% of burn injuries in children, while 20% result from contact with hot surfaces such as irons or heaters, according to the World Health Organization. (1)
When your child suffers such an injury, your first action should be to provide first aid for the burn and quickly take them to the emergency department if the burn is severe.
Types of Burns in Children
It is crucial to understand the different degrees of burns to assess their severity and treat them appropriately. Burns are categorized into three types: (2)
- Superficial Burns (First-Degree Burns)
- These burns affect only the outer layer of the skin. They are characterized by redness and mild pain without blisters. This type of burn usually heals within 3-6 days without leaving a scar.
- Partial-Thickness Burns (Second-Degree Burns)
- These burns extend into the second layer of skin, showing severe redness, pain, and red blisters. This type of burn requires immediate treatment in the emergency department.
- Full-Thickness Burns (Third-Degree Burns)
- The most severe type, affecting all layers of the skin and reaching the nerves. The burned skin may appear dry and colored white, brown, or black. The child might not feel pain due to damaged nerve endings. Immediate emergency treatment is essential.
First Aid for Child Burns
Here are the steps for providing first aid for burns in children: (3)
- Immediate Cooling: Rinse the burned area under cool running water for at least 10 minutes. Avoid breaking any blisters that may form.
- Remove Clothing and Accessories: Gently remove any clothing or accessories unless they are stuck to the skin. If necessary, cut away as much of the clothing as possible without pulling.
- Cover the Burn: Place a sterile, non-stick dressing or a clean, dry cloth over the burn. If there is any discharge, cover it lightly without applying pressure.
- Seek Emergency Care: Go to the emergency department as soon as possible for appropriate treatment and to prevent complications.
At Saudi Hospital, we provide immediate and exceptional medical care for your child in our 24/7 emergency department, utilizing the latest global classification systems (Canadian Classification 🇨🇦) to ensure the quickest and most effective treatment.
What to Avoid
Do not use any of the following remedies or substances on your child’s burn, as they can cause further harm: (4)
- Ice
- Toothpaste
- Butter
- Petroleum jelly
When to Seek Emergency Care
You should seek emergency medical attention for your child in the following cases: (2)
- The burn is of the second or third degree.
- The affected area is large (more than 3 cm in diameter or over 10% of the body surface).
- The burn involves the face, hands, throat, or genital area.
- The child is very young, making home treatment challenging.
References
- Burn Injury Statistics and Treatment Guidelines – World Health Organization
- First Aid for Burns – American Red Cross
- Guidelines for Treating Burns – Mayo Clinic
