However, pain is rare because the sensory nerve endings are usually destroyed. Sometimes the muscle and fat beneath an electric burn are visible. Third-degree electric burn - Extends through the epidermis and dermis to the deepest layers of tissue and nerves. Symptoms include pain, redness and blistering, with possible oozing or bleeding. Second-degree electric burn – Both the epidermis and the next layer of skin underneath, known as the dermis, is damaged. First-degree burns usually heal in around 7-10 days. Each type has different symptoms and will vary in healing time.įirst-degree electric burn - Only the epidermis, the outermost and most superficial layer of skin, is damaged. Like any other burn, an electric burn has three degrees of severity. The time it takes to recover from electrocution burns will depend on the severity of the damage and how soon after an accident a patient receives the proper electrical burn treatment. Don't move someone with an electrical injury unless they are in immediate danger.Don't use your bare hands to move an electricity source.Don’t touch an injured person if they are still in contact with a live electricity source.If you are helping someone else who has been burned, be sure to secure your safety and secure the scene: While milder burns may not be quite as time-sensitive, you should call 911 immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms: That’s why it’s essential to get properly checked as soon as possible. For example, an electrical burn on the hand may not leave a visible mark but could still cause significant internal damage and possibly even cardiac arrest. However, even a small amount of electricity can be fatal. The danger posed by electrocution burns depends on the current, voltage, how the electricity travels through the patient’s body and the victim’s overall health. When to Seek Emergency Care for Your Electrical Burns Keep checking their breathing and pulse rate until medical personnel arrives.Cover the victim with warm, dry clothes or blankets.For an electrical burn on hands, arms, legs or feet, raise the burned limb above heart level.Check for breathing and provide CPR if needed.Make sure the electrical source has been turned off.While you are waiting for help to arrive, follow these first aid steps: Call 911 or head to the nearest hospital with an emergency department. So, it is vital to seek professional assistance as soon as possible. Apply moisturizing lotion or petroleum jelly to hydrate the skin and retain moisture to prevent dryness and itching as the burn heals.įor more severe injuries, electrical burns treatment may include resuscitation and recovery can include surgery and skin grafts.Administer over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain and swelling.Never apply oily substances, home remedies like butter, mayonnaise or egg whites, or medicine from your bathroom cabinet directly to the wound.Cover the affected area with a clean, dry and sterile non-stick dressing.Instead, soak the affected area, apply a cold, wet compress or run under cool water for at least 20 minutes. Do not use ice or attempt to disinfect the skin with iodine, alcohol or other cleansers.Avoid popping blisters, as this can lead to infection.Remove clothing from the affected area.If symptoms persist or there is any doubt about the severity of a burn, consult your physician, call 911 or head to the nearest hospital with an emergency department.Mild Burnsįor minor or mild burns, follow these first aid steps: Severe burns from a more extensive second-degree electrical injury or third-degree burn require immediate intervention and emergency treatment. Mild burns like first-degree and minor second-degree burns can sometimes be treated at home-although it’s always advisable to seek the opinion of a healthcare professional. The guidelines on how to treat an electrical burn depend on the degree of the burn. Electrical injuries can sometimes be contained to thermal (electricity can create heat and cause a thermal burn or in addition, can be conducted through the body to cause a wide variety of internal injuries). A major concern with electrical burns is whether or not the victim has suffered injuries as a result of the electrical current, so any odd sensations, feelings or pains, even remote from the burn, need to be evaluated urgently.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |