Overview of Burn Wound Treatment, Lubbock, Texas

Burn wound injuries are caused by fires or flames, hot liquids or steam, contact with a hot object or agent like grease or tar, chemicals, or electricity.

The burn depth depends on how hot the agent was and how long the burned area was in contact with the agent and how thick the skin is in the area. There are three levels of a burn injury:

First-degree burns

A first-degree burn is considered the least severe because it only affects the outer layer of skin. These burns cause minor damage to the skin. Skin may be red and tender or swollen. An example would be a mild sunburn that turns red, swelling and may peel. First-degree burns can generally be treated at home.

Second-degree burns 

These burns go through the second layer of skin, called the dermis. These burns cause pain, redness, white, wet, and shiny skin blisters and are often painful.

The injury may ooze or bleed. They usually heal within 1 to 3 weeks. After healing, skin may be discolored. These burns generally do not leave raised scars.

Third-degree burns 

These burns damage both layers of the skin and may also damage the underlying bones, muscles, and tendons. Injured skin may turn white, black, and/or gray. It may feel dry and leathery. Sometimes there is no pain because the nerve endings under the skin are destroyed.

Treatment Options for Burn Wound

After you have received first aid for a major burn, medical care may include medications and products that are intended to encourage healing.

Water-based treatments. 

Your care team may use techniques such as ultrasound mist therapy to clean and stimulate the wound tissue.

Fluids to prevent dehydration. 

You may need intravenous (IV) fluids to prevent dehydration and organ failure.

Pain and anxiety medications. 

Healing burns can be incredibly painful. You may need morphine and anti-anxiety medications particularly for dressing changes.

Burn creams and ointments. 

If you are not being transferred to a burn center, your care team may select from a variety of topical products for wound healing, such as bacitracin and silver sulfadiazine (Silvadene). These help prevent infection and prepare the wound to close.

Dressings. 

Your care team may also use various specialty wound dressings to prepare the wound to heal. If you are being transferred to a burn center, your wound will likely be covered in dry gauze only.

Treatment Reference