Burn Wound Management

Damage to the skin or deeper tissues caused by the sun, hot liquids, fire, electricity or chemicals. The degree of severity of most burns is based on the size and depth of the burn. Electrical burns, however, are more difficult to diagnose because they’re capable of causing significant injury beneath the skin without showing any signs of damage on the surface. Symptoms range from a feeling of minor discomfort to a life-threatening emergency, depending on the size and depth (degree) of the burn.

Sunburn and small scalds can often be treated at home. Deep or widespread burns and chemical or electrical burns need immediate medical care, often at specialised burn units.