Burns and Scalds in Children

Call 911 if:

• The burned area is charred or white.
• Electric shock or chemicals caused the burn.
• The burn is on the face, hands, feet, genitals, or a joint.
• The burn covers 10% or more of the body.
• You can treat mild 1st degree burns -- those that look like sunburns -- at home. Second- or 3rd degree burns need immediate medical attention.

Call Doctor If:
The burn is oozing or seems infected (red, swollen, tender).

1. Soak the Burn

• Immediately put the burned area in cool -- not cold -- water or under a faucet.
• Keep the injury in water for at least five to 15 minutes.
• Do not use ice.

2. Remove Burned Clothing

• If the clothing is stuck to the skin, do not peel it away. Leave it in place and cut away the clothing around it.

3. Cover the Burn

• Use nonstick gauze or a clean cloth.
• If the burn is mild, you may put on antibiotic ointment.
• Don't put butter, grease, or anything else on the burn, and do not pop any blisters.

4. Reduce Pain

• Use an infant or child-strength over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).
• Follow the dosing instructions on the bottle.
• Call a pediatrician first if your child has never taken this medication before.

SOURCES:

FamilyDoctor.org: "First Aid: Burns."

HealthyChildren.org: "Treating and Preventing Burns."

Journal of the American Medical Association: "Burn Injuries."