When treating burns as a nursing student, it’s essential to understand the different causes and how to respond appropriately. Burns result from injuries to the body’s tissues caused by heat, electricity, chemicals, or radiation. Since thermal burns—caused by exposure to heat or cold—are among the most common, understanding their severity and proper treatment is critical in both Basic Life Support (BLS) and First Aid training.
A simple way to remember the effects of thermal energy is: "Hot is Fast, Cold is Slow." A burn from heat occurs quickly and requires immediate treatment, whereas cold-related burns, such as frostbite, develop over time. However, both can cause severe damage if left untreated.
Degrees of Thermal Burns
First-Degree (Superficial) Burns
Affects the outermost layer of the skin.
Symptoms: Redness, pain, possible swelling, tenderness.
Common Example: Mild sunburn.
Second-Degree (Partial Thickness) Burns
Affects deeper layers of the skin.
Symptoms: Redness, pain (mild to severe), swelling, and blisters. Do not pop blisters.
Common Example: Cooking-related burns.
Third-Degree (Full Thickness) Burns
Affects all layers of skin and possibly deeper tissues.
Symptoms: Redness, swelling, blisters, open wounds, charred or waxy white skin. Pain may not be present in the worst areas due to nerve damage.
Common Example: Severe flame or electrical burns.
Always seek immediate medical attention for third-degree burns.
First Degree Burn
Second Degree Burn
Third Degree Burn
Preventing Thermal Burns
At Home & In Clinical Settings:
Keep hot liquids and appliances out of reach of children.
Adjust water heater temperature to 49°C (120°F) or lower.
Use back burners and turn pot handles inward when cooking.
Never put water on a grease fire—use baking soda instead.
Ensure proper handling and storage of flammable materials.
Electrical Burns:
Keep electrical appliances away from water.
Repair or replace frayed cords.
Use outlet covers in pediatric settings.
Lightning Strikes:
Seek shelter in a building or vehicle during storms.
Avoid metal objects, tall trees, and open fields.
Do not use corded phones unless in an emergency.
How to Treat a Thermal Burn
Assess the Scene & Patient:
Ensure the area is safe.
Check for Airway, Breathing, Circulation (ABCs).
Wear gloves if available to prevent contamination.
Call 911 & Get an AED if:
The burn covers more than 10% of the body.
There is severe pain or charring.
The burn is caused by chemicals, electricity, radiation, or explosions.
Care for the Burn:
Cool the affected area with running water for 10-20 minutes.
For chemical burns, brush away dry chemicals before flushing with water.
Do not remove clothing stuck to the burn—seek professional care instead.
For 2nd & 3rd-degree burns: Cool only small areas at a time to prevent shock.
Cover the burn loosely with a sterile, non-stick dressing.
Do not attempt to clean full-thickness burns.
Always seek medical attention for severe burns to reduce infection risk.
By mastering these techniques in your Basic Life Support (BLS) and First Aid training, you’ll be well-prepared to treat burns effectively in a clinical setting. Burns can happen anywhere—whether in a hospital, at home, or in the community—so being knowledgeable in first aid for burns can make a life-saving difference.
Be Prepared—Take Action!
In healthcare, quick and informed responses save lives. Ensure you're trained in Basic Life Support (BLS) and First Aid with Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.
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“This material is for informational purposes only and is based on guidelines from The Canadian Red Cross, Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, and Alberta Health Services. This content does not replace professional medical advice or official safety training. Consult your physician or safety training facility for further guidance.”
RESOURCES:
Author - Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd
Jason T
Retired EMT - Heart & Stroke Foundation Senior Instructor