CHEMICAL BURNS

The rule of the skin for out homeostasis is very important. Skin participates in protection from microorganisms and fluid and temperature regulation of the body. We have three layers of skin : 

 -Epidermis –the outer layer

 -Dermis –the middle tissue made up of collagen and elastic fibers. Here we have hair follicles reside, sweat glands, blod vessels and nerves.

 -Hypodermis where larger blood vessels and nerves are found and which is most important in temperature regulation.

The burns are categorized in three degrees :

 -First degree-superficial burn that causes local inflammation

 -Second degree-deeper burn with more pain, redness and inflammation

 -Third degree- all three layers of the skin are involved .this type of burn is white, leathery and painless because the nerves and blood vessels are damaged.

Chemical burns are classified as:

 -Acids- chemicals  with pH less than 7, like acetic acid, sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid.

 -Bases – pH grater than 7, ex. Ammonia

When you have major burs firs that you should do is to:

 1.Remove the victim from burning area

 2.Remove all burning materials from the victim

 3.Call 911

 4.Keep the patient warm and still. If it’s available wrap the injured areas with clan sheet. Do not use cold water because this may cause hypothermia (droping of the body temperature).

If the burn is minor than you should:

 1.Clean the wound gently with lukewarm water

 2.Remove all potentially constricting objects (rings, bracelets) because the burn areas are swelling.

 3.You can use topical antibiotics as silvadene, bacitracin or neosprin.

In case of chemical burns it’s very important to identify what had cause the burn.