Families For Life | Scalds
Scalds when sustained by a child, can be life-threatening. You can learn how to give first aid to your child if he or she is scalded.
Injuries due to scalding are one of the most common and serious forms of burn injuries among children. The effects of scald burns can range from reddened skin to massive blisters and the oozing of fluid from the injured area. Serious scald burns that cover a large area of the body can threaten a child's life. You will need to seek medical attention immediately.
Here’s how you can give your child first aid in the event that he has a scald:
First aid for scald
- Immerse the burnt area in cool water, apply cool compresses to burns of the trunk or face, and continue until the child does not seem to be in pain
- Do not break blisters
- Do not apply ice, butter, or oil
- After soaking in cool water, cover the area with a non-stick bandage
See a doctor immediately for:
- any burns on the face, hands, feet, or genitals
- any burn injury to a child less than 5 years old.
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