Quick Answer
You should remove jewelry from the burned area to prevent it from becoming constricted or embedded in the wound, as well as to allow for proper wound debridement and dressing.
Assessing Burn Severity
When treating a burn, it’s essential to assess its severity before providing care. Burns are classified based on their depth and size. First-degree burns affect only the outer layer of the skin, causing redness, pain, and swelling. Second-degree burns, also known as partial-thickness burns, damage both the epidermis and dermis, causing blisters and charring. Third-degree burns, or full-thickness burns, penetrate through all layers of skin, potentially causing nerve damage and organ failure. Use the “Rule of Nines” to estimate the burn’s size: the head and neck account for 9%, each arm for 9%, each leg for 18%, and the front and back for 18% each.
Treating Burns
To treat a burn, start by cooling the area with cool or lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes. This helps reduce the temperature of the skin and ease pain. Do not use ice or ice water, as it can cause further tissue damage. Remove any jewelry or constrictive items from the burned area, as mentioned earlier. Clean the burn with mild soap and lukewarm water, and gently pat it dry with a clean towel. Apply a topical antibiotic ointment to prevent infection, followed by a non-stick dressing or bandage to protect the wound. Change the dressing daily and monitor the burn for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus.
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