Burn injuries are classified according to the extent of damage done to your skin.
Burn injuries may be common, but its occurence may be significantly lowered through prevention efforts.
A burn is a common injury that is highly preventable. Most burn injuries occur in the home and are accidental in nature. Women and children are more likely to fall victim to a burn injury in the kitchen, while men may suffer a burn injury at the workplace.
“Prevention efforts can significantly lower the incidence of burns, especially in children,” says Ms Pamela Ng, Senior Occupational Therapist, Department of Occupational Therapy, Singapore General Hospital (SGH), a member of the SingHealth group.
There are many different types of burn injuries, and they are classified according to the source of the injury and the extent of skin damage.
These are caused by fire, explosions, steam, hot objects, hot liquids, etc.
As a result of coming into contact with strong acids or alkaline substances.
Caused by electrical sources.
Burns are described as first-degree, second-degree or third-degree, depending on the extent of damage to the skin:
This involves the epidermis or top layer of the skin and is erythematous (red and inflamed), painful, and dry.
A second-degree burn affects the epidermis and part of the underlying dermis and has clear blisters and wet, erythematous skin. It blanches (skin appears paler than usual) and is painful when touched and generally does not cause scarring.
Read on to learn about tips and how to treat burns.
Ref: Q15
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