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Understanding a Burn Injury

A direct guide for patients, families, and caregivers.

A burn injury can be frightening, but understanding what to expect helps you take control. This guide explains each phase—evaluation, healing, and recovery—offering clear steps and support throughout your journey.


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PHASE I: Burn Evaluation & Early Care

What is a burn injury?

A burn damages your skin—and possibly deeper tissues like fat, muscle, or bone. Burns can happen from:

Chemical (Harsh Substances)

Burns caused by contact with strong acids, alkalis, or other corrosive materials.

Contact (Touching a Hot Object)

Burns from direct contact with heated metal, glass, or other hot surfaces.

Electrical (Electric Current)

Burns resulting from exposure to electrical current; may cause deep tissue damage. 

Flames (Open Fire)

Burns from direct exposure to open flames, such as from a fire or candle.

Flash Burns (Explosions)

Caused by sudden, intense heat—typically from explosions or flammable vapor ignition.

Frostbite (Cold)

Occurs when skin and tissue freeze due to prolonged exposure to extreme cold.

Grease (Hot Oil)

Burns caused by splattering or spilled hot oil, especially during cooking.

Scalds (Hot Liquids or Steam)

Burns from hot water, steam, or other heated fluids—common in household accidents.

How deep is the burn?

First degree (superficial):

Red, painful skin without blisters. Heals in 3–5 days with no scarring.

Second degree (partial thickness):

Blisters, swelling, pain. Superficial heal in ~2 weeks; deeper may need care and could scar.

Third degree (full thickness):

White, charred, or leathery texture. Often numb. Needs medical care and possibly skin grafts.

Fourth degree:

Extends to bone or muscle—requires emergency care.

How big is the burn?

Doctors use TBSA (Total Body Surface Area) to estimate size. First degree burns aren’t counted in this measure.

Can my lungs get hurt?

Yes. Breathing in smoke or chemicals can damage your lungs. This requires careful monitoring in a hospital.

What makes a burn severe?

Factors include: 

  • Depth and size 

  • Age of the person 

  • Location (face, hands, feet, genitals) 

  • Inhalation injury (smoke/fumes) 

  • Other injuries or health issues 

PHASE II: Healing the Burn

What are skin grafts and donor sites?

If your burn is deep, doctors may transplant healthy skin from another part of your body (usually thigh or back). Donor sites typically heal within two weeks.

Types of grafts:

Autografts (your own skin): Split-thickness skin graft (STSG)

A thin layer of skin, usually including the epidermis and part of the dermis, is taken from a donor site on the patient’s body. These grafts are commonly used for larger surface areas and typically heal faster at the donor site.

Autografts (your own skin): Full-thickness skin graft (FTSG)

Includes the entire epidermis and dermis. Full-thickness grafts are used for smaller areas where durability, appearance, and reduced contraction are more important (e.g., face, hands). Donor sites may require stitches or even a skin graft to heal.

Allografts/Homografts (from another person)

Temporary

Xenografts (animal skin)

Temporary

Meshed

Expanded to cover more area

Sheet grafts (smooth surface)

For small or sensitive areas

What to expect during healing: 

  • Pain: Surface or pressure-related, especially during dressing changes 

  • Fatigue: Common, especially with larger burns 

  • Itching: Normal—use moisturizers and gentle medication 

When to call your care team: 

If pain worsens, fever develops, or redness/pus appears, these may signal infection. 

Preventing infection: 

  • Follow wound-care instructions 

  • Wash hands and use gloves if advised 

  • Clean wounds gently 

  • Use antibiotic ointments or dressings as directed 

Scarring care: 

If wounds heal within 14 days, scarring is less likely. For raised scars, treatments include: 

  • Pressure garments 

  • Silicone sheets 

  • Massage therapy 

  • Laser treatments 

PHASE III: Long-Term Recovery, Rehabilitation, & Aftercare

What does rehabilitation involve?

Rehab may take place in hospitals, rehab centers, skilled nursing facilities, or outpatient clinics, depending on your needs. 

Physical Therapy

Helps regain movement and strength

Occupational Therapy

Assists with daily tasks like dressing or cooking

Speech Therapy

Supports swallowing, communication, or cognitive issues

Nutrition: 

Recovering burns require more calories and protein. A dietitian can support your healing with a balanced intake. 

Mental and emotional health: 

Feelings of anxiety, depression, or isolation are common. Your care team can connect you with: 

  • Counselors or psychologists 

  • Support for PTSD, sleep issues, or substance concerns 

  • Social workers for housing, finances, and resources 

Support for family and friends: 

  • Take care of your own needs too (meals, rest) 

  • Coordinate visits and support 

  • Designate one contact person to communicate with the care team 

This guide is informational and doesn’t replace medical advice. Talk to your care provider for personalized treatment plans.