Does wound care and dressing treat minor burns?

A minor burn commonly affects the outer skin, causing redness, soreness and sometimes a small blister. First aid removes heat from the skin; a suitable dressing then shields the area from rubbing, dirt and further irritation. Dressings should not stick to the wound or be wrapped tightly enough to restrict circulation. A clinician may need to assess a burn that is deep, extensive, or in a sensitive area such as the face, hands, feet or genitals.

Cool the burn under cool running water for a sustained period, remove jewellery or tight items before swelling develops, and cover it with a clean, non-stick dressing. Do not apply ice, butter, oils or adhesive material directly to the injury, and do not burst blisters. Change the dressing as advised and watch for increasing pain, spreading redness, discharge or fever. A pharmacist or clinician can help choose a dressing when the skin is broken.

Seek urgent medical attention for a burn caused by electricity or chemicals, inhalation of smoke, or skin that looks white, charred, leathery or numb. Get prompt assessment for a large burn, a burn crossing a joint, or any burn involving the face, hands, feet or genitals. Arrange medical review if redness spreads, swelling worsens, pus appears, fever develops or the wound is not improving.

Ask which dressing suits the burn, how often it should be changed, whether pain relief is appropriate, and which signs mean the wound needs review.