What To Do If You Have Burned Your Hand On A Pot?
The kitchen is a place where accidents happen, and burning your hand on a hot pot is a common mishap. Although it can be painful and frightening, it's important to know how to minimize damage and promote quick healing. If you act quickly and take the necessary steps, burn injuries can be effectively managed.
Steps to Take:
Step 1: You should carefully remove your hand from the hot pot or pan if it is still in contact with it. Protect your hand(s) from additional heat exposure by using a towel or oven mitts. The damage could be worsened by using ice or cold water to cool the burn initially.
Step 2: Determine whether first aid is necessary, assess burn severity. There are three general categories of burns:
First-Degree Burn: Occurs when the skin's outermost layer (epidermis) is burned. Results usually include redness, pain, and swelling of the skin.
Second-Degree Burn: A second-degree burn affects the layers of skin beneath the epidermis (dermis). Intense pain, swelling, and blistering are the most common symptoms.
Third-Degree Burn: With third-degree burns, all layers of skin are impacted. It is possible for them to appear white and nerve damage can be a result.
Step 3: Reduce pain and prevent deeper tissue damage. Cool first degree burns immediately. You can relieve the pain by holding your hand under cool running water for about 10-15 minutes. An alternative is to place a clean, cool, damp cloth over the burn.
Step 4: Use a mild soap and cool water to gently clean the burn after it cools. Avoid scrubbing the burn or using harsh substances that irritate the skin. Pat the area dry with a clean towel or sterile gauze.
Step 5: Protect the burn from infection by applying a sterile, non-stick dressing or a clean cloth. Directly applying adhesive bandages to a burn can cause further damage since they can adhere to the wound.
Step 6: Manage pain: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Be sure to follow the directions and dosage recommended on the label.
Step 7: Seek medical assistance if:
The burns are large or that affect sensitive areas.
There is a burn around the eyes, nose, or mouth
It is a deep burn
When the burn has signs of infection, such as oozing, pain, swelling, and redness
An injury to the hand, especially a burn, can be painful and distressing. Providing immediate relief, preventing further damage, and promoting healing can be accomplished by following these initial first aid steps. If you have recently experienced a hand burn and are concerned about the severity of the burn, schedule an appointment with one of our physicians at the Hand & Upper Extremity Center of San Antonio today!
