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The difference between burns and scalds is that the former is caused by a dry heat and the latter is caused by a wet heat (usually associated with steam burns). The aim of first aid for burns and scalds is to stop the burning sensation, alleviate the pain and minimize the risk that the open wound will be infected.
Running cold water over the burn for about 10 minutes should help stop the burning and alleviate the associated pain. All jewelry and other metal near the burn site should also be removed because metal conducts heat and it will only help to intensify the burn. Once the wound has been cooled down, it should be covered to keep it from being exposed to the air and risking infection. This can be done by covering it with anything from clean cloths to cling film. -
Shock results from a dramatic drop in a person's blood pressure and is usually evident by the sufferer's skin turning blue-gray and becoming very cold. The aim of first aid for shock is to facilitate circulation in the victim's body while getting him to professional care at a hospital.
The first step is to treat any obvious injuries to the person before focusing on treating for shock. The victim's legs should be raised and any tight clothing should be loosened to encourage circulation. They should also be kept warm as this will also encourage circulation. -
Insect stings should be removed as soon as possible by scraping it out from under the skin using the blunt edge of a knife or a credit card. Don't make the common mistake of using tweezers to pluck it from the skin because it is likely that a part of the sting will be caught under the skin and cause infection. You can reduce any swelling by applying ice water or ice cubes to the affected area.
Jellyfish stings should be neutralized by washing the stung area in vinegar or salt water, neutralizing the basic properties of the sting. A light compression bandage should be applied above the stung area if possible and ice should be applied to the affected area to minimize swelling. In any case where someone is stung, you should be aware of the possibility that the victim will go into anaphylactic shock from allergies to the sting venom. -
Cuts are the most common injury, and have the potential to be very dangerous. Always start by inspecting the cut to determine how severe the injury is. If the cut is a deep laceration, apply firm, steady pressure. It is ideal to use a clean, dry cloth for this purpose. Seek professional medical help in case stitches are required.
Smaller cuts can be treated at home. Clean the area with water, saline solution or hydrogen peroxide. Once the cut is clean, apply an antibiotic ointment to the cut. This will fight infection, reduce scarring and help the cut heal faster. Finally, apply an adhesive bandage or wrap in gauze. Change the bandage daily.
