How to Care for a Burn Wound

Burn wounds can be painful and prone to infection, making proper treatment essential for healing and preventing complications. Whether caused by heat, chemicals, or electricity, burns require immediate care to minimize damage and promote recovery. Understanding the severity of the burn and following the right treatment steps can make a significant difference in healing outcomes.

Step 1: Identify the Severity of the Burn

Burns are classified into three categories based on depth and severity:

• First-degree burns – Affect only the outer layer of skin (redness, minor swelling, and pain).
• Second-degree burns – Extend deeper into the skin, causing blisters, severe redness, and intense pain.
• Third-degree burns – Damage all skin layers, potentially affecting nerves, muscles, and bones. These require emergency medical attention.

For minor burns, at-home treatment is possible, but severe burns need professional care.

Step 2: Immediate Burn Care

If you or someone else suffers a burn, follow these first aid steps:

• Cool the burn – Run cool (not icy) water over the affected area for 10-15 minutes to reduce heat and swelling.
• Do not apply ice – Ice can cause further skin damage.
• Remove tight clothing or jewelry – Swelling can occur quickly, so remove anything constrictive near the burn.
• Cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick dressing – This protects the wound from infection.
• Avoid using butter, toothpaste, or ointments – These can trap heat and worsen the burn.

Step 3: Ongoing Burn Wound Care

Proper aftercare helps prevent infection, scarring, and prolonged healing:

• Keep the burn clean and dry – Gently wash with mild soap and water.
• Apply an antibiotic ointment – Helps protect against bacteria.
• Change dressings daily – Use sterile, non-stick bandages to protect the wound.
• Monitor for signs of infection – Watch for increased redness, swelling, pus, or fever.

For deep burns, burns that don’t heal, or burns on sensitive areas like the face or hands, seek professional medical care.

Expert Burn Wound Care at DFW Wound Care Center

If you have a burn that is not healing properly or showing signs of infection, professional treatment is essential. At DFW Wound Care Center, we specialize in advanced wound care techniques, including debridement, skin grafting, and bioengineered skin substitutes to accelerate healing.

We have immediate openings and are accepting new patients at our four clinics. Utilizing state-of-the-art wound care treatments at multiple locations, including Plano, Lewisville, Irving, and DeSoto, our experienced team is dedicated to helping patients recover safely and quickly. Contact DFW Wound Care Center today to schedule your appointment!