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Patients

Burn Care Procedures

Burn care looks different for every person and every type of burn. 

This section describes how burns are diagnosed and treated, from first aid to advanced care and long-term recovery. Knowing what to expect helps you make informed choices and get the support you need at every stage. Get the care that can ease pain, speed healing, and support your return to daily life.


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What It Is

Burn care includes the full range of treatment, from first aid and wound care to specialized therapy and surgery. The goal is to ease pain, prevent infection, promote healing, and support the patient's return to everyday life. 

Symptoms That Require Medical Help 

  • Large or deep burns 

  • Burns on the face, hands, feet, groin, or over major joints 

  • Signs of infection: increased pain, redness, swelling, oozing 

  • Trouble breathing or signs of smoke inhalation 

  • Numbness or white/blackened skin 

Diagnosis 

A healthcare professional will: 

  • Examine your skin to check burn depth and size 

  • Assess whether specialized care is needed 

  • Run tests like lab work, X-rays, or endoscopy if internal damage is suspected 

  • Decide whether transfer to a burn center is necessary 

Treatments & Products

Depending on burn severity, treatment may include: 

For Minor Burns (at home): 

  • Cool the burn with clean, running water (not ice) 

  • Apply gentle lotion (like aloe vera) 

  • Use over-the-counter pain medicine 

  • Bandage loosely with clean gauze 

For Major Burns (burn center or hospital care): 

  • IV fluids to prevent dehydration 

  • Topical antibiotics (burn creams or ointments) to prevent infection 

  • Specialty wound dressings 

  • Pain management and anti-anxiety medications 

  • Antibiotics (intravenous or oral) for infection 

  • Tetanus shots 

Recovery 

Recovery depends on burn depth, location, and overall health. It may include: 

  • Physical and occupational therapy to maintain movement 

  • Skin graft surgery (using healthy skin to cover damaged areas) 

  • Long-term wound care 

  • Emotional and psychological support 

Support 

Burn recovery is physical, emotional, and social. Support options include: 

  • Peer groups and survivor networks 

  • Counseling and mental health resources 

  • Resources for caregivers and family 

  • Ongoing rehabilitation for scars, pain, and mobility 

Disclaimer 

This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your healthcare provider about diagnosis or treatment. The ABA does not endorse any specific product, service, or treatment.