Babies love to explore things around them. Their curiosity can bring them in contact with hot liquids, hot surfaces or sources of heat causing burning or scalding. Be prepared to administer first aid for burns in children.
First aid for burns in kids
Please perform the following steps to administer first aid for burns in young children including infants [3]:
- Take the baby safely away from the source of burn
- Keep the burn area under cool/room temperature running water for 10-15 minutes
- Remove clothing around (but not stuck to) the burn area as much as possible
- Remove jewellery/tight items if any around the burn area
- Cover* the burn area with a cling film or clean plastic sheet to avoid infection
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Check for signs of shock and treat for shock if necessary
Note: *Do not wrap the sheet too tight to cut off circulation
The body may go into shock due to severe burns. Till medical help is available, keep looking for signs of shock and treat for shock if required.
If the burn is near mouth or face, give water to sip (remember – to sip, not gulp down/drink fast). Sipping cool water helps relieve pain and swelling.
If the burn is on a large area, do not submerge the entire body in water. Seek immediate medical attention.
First aid for chemical burns
If the burn is caused due to any chemical follow the steps mentioned below:
- Follow first aid steps for burns in kids (mentioned above)
- Avoid splashing water on burns, instead pour slowly and steadily
- Irrigate eyes**, if affected, with water for about 10 minutes
Note: **Slow and a steady stream of water while keeping baby’s face forward so that water drains away from the body.
In case of burn DO NOT:
- Remove anything sticking on the burn area
- Overcool body by pouring cold water on the entire body
- Apply ice or icy water which can damage skin tissues
- Apply lotions/creams/ointments to the affected area
- Use adhesive or tight dressing on the burn
- Try to break blisters formed due to burns
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