Reference no: EM131705805

Assignment

When you think of what the most common household injury is...you might think it's the common cut but it is actually burns! Burns are categorized by severe skin damage that causes the skin cells to die. When it comes to burns there are 3 different types of burns: first, second and third degree. According to Khan (2016), first degree burns cause red, nonblistered skin. Second degree burns have blisters and thickening of the skin. While third degree burns are the most severe and cause extensive thickness with a white, leathery appearance. There is also a fourth degree burn that extends beyond the skin into the tendons and bones.

First degree burns cause marginal damage, affecting the outermost layer of skin.One might experience redness, inflammation, pain and dry, peeling skin as the burns heals. They do not cause any scarring and heal within 7-10 days.

Second degree burns extend beyond the outermost layer of skin causing blisters. Due to the fact that the blisters may pop, it is important to keep these types of burns clean in order to prevent infections. The worst the blisters are the longer they will take to heal but most second degree burns heal within 2-3 weeks. In severe cases, skin grafting may be required to fix the damage. Third degree burns are the most severe burns, causing damage to all layers of skin. Due to the extensive amount of damage these cause, they may be no pain because of nerve damage.

These types of burns heal with scarring and contracture. Third degree burns take longer to heal due to the extensive damage so there is no set time line. All burns carry the risk of infection due to the fact that bacteria can enter the broken skin. Tetanus, a bacterial infection, is also another risk for all types of burns. Tetanus affects the nervous system and can lead to muscle contraction issues. Third degree burns carry the most risks, such as infections, blood loss and shock. Hypovolemia, low blood volume, can also occur when we lose too much blood from the burn. I was surprised to learn that hypothermia is also a risk for burns because we can lose excessive amounts of body heat from the injury. People who receive second and third degree burns that cause damage in deep tissues, bones and organs may also need to receive surgery, physical therapy, rehabilitation or lifelong assisted care.

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