Etapa 5. Vídeo 3. Heridas y quemaduras. Tu ruta hacia el éxito profesional.

First Aid Assessment and Treatment

Initial Evaluation and Wound Management

• After the initial assessment of vital signs, secondary evaluation begins, applying appropriate techniques based on the type of injury (wounds, burns, hemorrhages, fractures).

• The severity of wounds is determined by the affected areas; superficial wounds are considered minor while those affecting hands, eyes, mouth, nose, or genitals are classified as serious.

• It is crucial to sanitize hands and instruments before treating a wound. Use gloves and sterile materials when possible. Minor wounds should be cleaned and left uncovered if there’s no infection risk.

• For severe wounds, monitor the victim's general condition and vital signs. Cover with a moist dressing and evacuate urgently if penetrating injuries occur in the thorax or abdomen.

Burn Classification and Treatment

• Burns result from contact with hot elements (fire, chemicals). They are classified by depth: first-degree (superficial), second-degree (deeper with blisters), third-degree (affecting all skin layers).

• First-degree burns cause redness and mild inflammation; second-degree burns lead to intense pain and swelling; third-degree burns destroy tissues without pain due to nerve damage.

• The "Rule of Nines" is used for assessing burn extent: 9% for head/each upper limb, 18% for anterior/posterior torso/back/buttocks, 18% for each lower limb, 1% for genital area.

Severity Assessment of Burns

• Burns affecting less than 10% of body surface area are considered minor; those between 10%-30% are serious regardless of degree; over 30% is categorized as very serious.

• Immediate actions for burn victims include moving them away from heat sources. Position them horizontally unless back injuries exist—then use lateral safety position or face down if necessary.

Care Procedures for Burns

• Assess burn severity by washing the affected area with cool water for about ten minutes. Cover it appropriately after cleaning to prevent further injury or infection.