When is wound care and dressing recommended for minor burns?

A superficial burn may be red, tender, and dry, while a deeper minor burn can blister or lose its outer skin. A clean, non-stick dressing can shield the area from friction and dirt while the surface repairs. A dressing should not hide worsening pain, spreading redness, increasing warmth, pus, or fever.

Cool the burn under cool running water as soon as possible and remove nearby jewellery or clothing unless it is stuck. Do not apply ice, butter, oils, or adhesive material directly to the injury, and do not break blisters. After gentle cleaning, cover the area with a sterile non-stick dressing and change it if it becomes wet or dirty. Keep the dressing comfortable rather than tight, especially around a finger, wrist, or ankle.

Arrange medical assessment for a burn on the face, hands, feet, genitals, or over a major joint; a burn that circles a limb; a chemical or electrical burn; or an injury that is larger, pale, numb, charred, or deeply blistered. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, confusion, severe weakness, or a burn caused by inhaling smoke. Contact a clinician if redness spreads, drainage develops, pain increases, or healing is not progressing.

Ask whether the burn depth needs review, which dressing material suits the wound, how often it should be changed, and whether tetanus protection needs checking.