Burns
Among the many accidents that occur in children, burns are the most frequent and frightening.
Among the common causes of burns are: Scalds from liquids which maybe due to spillage from hot teas, coffee, soup or hot liquid on the stove
Burns from fire or heat which result from playing with matches which are irresistible attractions to children or when fire breaks out due to an adult’s carelessness or a child’s mischief
Electrical burns
Burns could be prevented through the following measures:
Do not allow children to play near any source of fire. Teach children the danger of playing with fire.
Keep matches away from the cooking area to make sure that pots and pans are beyond their reach.
Take the necessary precautions when dealing with occupations that involve the use of fire
Treatment
First aid care of burns is meant to prevent shock and to control pain.
A quick estimate of the body surface burned is a guide for action:
All of one leg -18%
All of one arm and head – 18%
Front of the trunk 18%
Back of the trunk 18%
A person with 25% of the body surface burned can develop “burn shock” and may die unless he receives immediate first aid. In burn shock the liquid part of the blood goes to the burned area. There may not be enough blood volume to keep the brain, heart and other organs functioning normally.
Superficial burns
With superficial burns, the upper layer of the skin is burned with redness, swelling and pain but without formation of blisters. The skin is not broken.
Place affected area immediately in cold water or apply cold compress to relieve the pain. Do not apply pomade , cooking oil or coconut oil.
Burns with blister formation
If a blister forms, do not drain. If the blister bursts, take off adjoining skin and clean with soap and water. A suggested medicinal plant may then be applied.
It would be better to leave the burned area exposed to the air. Avoid contamination by insects and files. Never smear or grease.
If the wound cannot be kept clean, cover the burned area with a clean pad or cloth with Vaseline. If there are signs of infection such as pus formation, foul smell, fever and swollen lymph nodes, consult a physician.
Deep or extensive burns
If the burn is sever with gaping flesh or bones, or a big body surface is burned, call a physician immediately or bring to the nearest hospital or clinic. While awaiting medical attention, follow the tips listed above. Wrap the burned area with a clean cloth or towel./
Comfort and reassure the patient because those suffering from severe burn can experience shock. Give aspirin to reduce pain and plenty of liquid to drink.
Medicinal plants for superficial burns
Plant material
Gumamela flower buds, oregano leaves
Preparation
Use only one of the plant material listed. Express the juice from enough fresh plant material.
Direction for use
Apply the juice on the affected parts. Do this 2 times a day. Maintain cleanliness during the entire procedure.
Plant material
Sabila leaves
Preparation
Cut off a fresh sabila leaf, extract or collect sufficient juice to cover the affected part. The remaining juice can be extracted when needed.
Direction for use
Apply the juice on the affected part. Wash off the sabila juice after 15 minutes.Do this 2 times a day. Maintain cleanliness during the entire procedure.
Source: guidebook on the proper use of medicinal plants 1991. DOST PCHRD