Premergency First Aid, CPR and AED Manual

7 Bleeding, Wound Care and Trauma

Flame burns are often deep burns. This is especially true if the person’s clothing has caught on fire. Scald burns are produced by hot liquids and are more common in children and persons with handicaps but can happen to anyone, often while cooking. Due to the rapid spread of liquid, scald burns can be extensive, covering large areas of the body. Contact burns happen when a person touches something hot. Normal reflex action usually prevents prolonged exposure, and contact burns are rarely deep unless something prevents the patient from pulling away such as impairment, unconsciousness, or restraints. Steam burns can create a typical scald burn. Minor steam burns are common in cooking. Steam (any hot gas) can cause severe airway burns. Flash burns produced by an explosion or lightning briefly expose the patient to very high heat. This injury is usually minor compared to the trauma from whatever caused the flash.

First Aider in Action: Part 8 With support on either side, Anita is able to move to the car without using her injured foot. Once you have her seated in the back of the car you reassess her wound and the bandage to make sure it hasn’t resumed bleeding and her perfusion below the wound remains good. During the short ride to the hospital, you continue to monitor Anita for any adverse signs and symptoms. She remains alert with good colour and only mild pain from her foot. When you arrive at the emergency department you have one of your friends bring a wheelchair. Even though Anita says she can walk you explain to her the need to avoid exertion and prevent any further stress to the wound. What information will you provide the hospital regarding Anita, the accident, and your role?

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