Adult Burns

This leaflet aims to support verbal information given to you from the treating nurse practitioner or doctor. 

Burns can be caused by the following: 

• Extreme heat (common) 

• Extreme cold 

• Contact with chemicals Electrocution 

Management of your burn depends on how deep the burn is and the size. Burns are classified according to depth as follows: 

Superficial 

This involves the top outer outermost layer of skin which is very sensitive. This is the most minor burn and frequently seen. 

This burn will heal on its own without scarring within 2-5 days. There may be some peeling of the skin and temporary discolouration. 

Superficial Partial Thickness 

The first two layers of skin are damaged but the burn does not pass to the deep tissues. 

Healing is usually complete within 3 weeks with repeated dressings and regular review. 

Superficial deep dermal & Full thickness Severe burns requiring admission to a specialist burns unit or urgent review in outpatients clinic. 

Your follow up appointment will be with 

• A&E 

• Minor Injuries Unit

•  GP Practice Nurse 

• Specialist Nurse Clinic 

In 7 days

Patients are required to make their own GP practice nurse appointment as advised. 

Any appointment with the Specialist Nurse Clinic will be via post or phone call. 

Aftercare 

• Take regular painkillers and do not wait for the pain to worsen. 

  • Paracetamol two tablets (500mg each) every 6 hours and if tolerated Ibuprofen (400mg 8 hourly) are very effective. Do not take additional paracetamol if you take medication containing this. If you are allergic or have a medical condition preventing you from taking either please inform the clinician. 

• If the burn affects your arm/hand keep this elevated when awake. 

• Dressings are applied to the wound to protect the area. Leave these dressings on until your review appointment. 

Contact your practice nurse if: 

• The dressing is too tight or becomes loose 

• The dressing becomes wet, or the wound leaks through 

Return to Victoria A&E immediately if the following should develop: 

• Severe pain not relieved by regular painkillers 

• You feel unwell and have a fever. 

• Redness tracks beyond the dressing