Does anyone know how to treat a minor second-degree burn?

I've been calling around and my doctor's office said to go to the emergency room. I don't think it is an emergency. I just want to know if I should cover it, not cover it...use ointment, if so, what kind, etc, etc...

Any advice?

applekisses said:

keep it under cold water...followed by something...make sure you change your dressing everyday

If the burn is bad enough that it has started to blister, you should get medical attention to prevent infection.

You probably don't need to go to an emergency room, but you should see if your doctor can fit you into his schedule and take a look at it.

Taken from http://www.ecureme.com/em...e_Burn.asp

Depends on severity, size and type of burn

Minor Burns --

Reassurance

Protect the burn by covering it with sterile gauze or bandage (avoid friction or pressure)

Soaking in cool water may help (not in cold climate)

Pain management with over-the-counter medications (Tylenol, aspirin, etc.)

If the skin is not healing well in a few days, or the burn is greater than 3 cm in diameter, or the burn is over the face-contact a physician for advice.

If the patient appears sick and presents changes in alertness, confusion, fever, severe pain, or loss of consciousness -- seek immediate emergency medical treatment, regardless of the type of the burn.

Even small Burns that result in an open sore, loss of skin layers, or ulceration should be discussed with (and possibly seen by) a physician. Often an anti-infective cream, Silvedene, is prescribed.

A Tetanus shot may be required if the patient's vaccine is not up-to-date (Tetanus boosters are usually given every 7-10 years).

If you suspect an inhalation burn, seek immediate emergency medical treatment.

In all cases, keep the burn site clean and do not apply ointments (unless prescribed), creams, butter, toothpaste, or any household remedies until you check with your physician.

Do not burst the blisters or rub the skin.

If the burn is severe, do not soak it in ice water.

If the burn is due to exposure to chemicals, radiation, electrocution, inhalation, or the patient is in Shock -- call 911.

Major injuries need to be seen by a physician immediately.

Sorry, but where is the burn?

If it is on your face/throat, hands or genitals ( I really hope it's not there...ouch) then you do need to go to the ER. Also, if it covers a large area, where ever it is, go to the ER.

applekisses said:

just out of curiousity how do you know it is 2nd degree?

PERSIA said:

It didnt graduate with 1st class honours

Nothinbutjoy said:

It's over the top of my right pinky finger.

Ardeo said:

PERSIA said:

I thought it was just a first-degree one, but then I did some internet research and it said that any burn that starts to blister is a second-degree one.
Who knew?
It hurts bad enough.

applekisses said:

No, don't cover it... Let it breathe. They may need to clean it once you get to the hospital.

I hope that you are ok!

sag10 said:

Awww...thanks, Sag... I did it last night and have left it uncovered since. I don't think I'll be going to the hospital, probably an urgent care clinic.