Question
A child at home accidentally got burned by boiling water from a teapot, resulting in foot injuries. The parent immediately removed the pants and rinsed the area with cold water for a minute, after which multiple blisters appeared. The child then popped the blisters themselves, causing concern. How should one properly handle a child’s burn injury?
Answer
Hello! When a child sustains a burn from boiling water, the degree of burn typically ranges from three levels: first-degree burns only affect the superficial layer of skin, with localized mild redness and swelling, no blisters, and significant pain; second-degree burns involve skin damage, with localized swelling and pain, accompanied by blisters of varying sizes; third-degree burns extend to the subcutaneous tissue, fat, muscle, and even bone, appearing grayish or reddish-brown. Based on the description, the child’s burn is classified as second-degree. After the necrotic epidermis breaks open, it should be cleaned and disinfected immediately to prevent secondary infection.