Burns in children

Types of burns

We categorize burns based on the depth of the wound. The skin consists of two layers. These are the epidermis and the dermis. The skin also contains hair, sebum, and sweat glands.

Burns can be divided into superficial second-degree, deep second-degree, mixed, and third-degree burns. A first-degree burn only involves redness of the skin.

• First-degree burns

  A first-degree burn is not a wound, although it can still be painful. Consider sunburn, for example.

• Superficial second-degree burns

  In superficial second-degree burns, blisters often develop. Wounds usually heal within two weeks, often without scarring. We clean these burns and cover them with a temporary wound dressing.

• Deep second-degree burns

  For a deep second-degree burn, healing can take up to three weeks. Scars are likely to appear. These are often red, stiff, thick, and bumpy. These scars are called hypertrophic scars. If these scars run across a joint, your child may not be able to freely move the joint in question.

  To prevent hypertrophic scars as a result of second-degree burns, we perform skin grafting.

• Mixed burns

  A mixed burn is a combination of a superficial, and a deep second-degree burn. Mixed burns are often caused by hot water, such as hot tea. It is not always immediately clear whether surgery is necessary. We therefore examine the wound several times.

• Third-degree burns

  A burn in which both layers of skin are completely burned is called a third-degree burn. With a third-degree burn, we perform skin grafting. A third-degree burn is usually caused by a flame. The burn is often stiff, but comparatively less painful.

Acute admission

At the Emergency Room, we check your child's airways and breathing. If necessary, your child will receive oxygen through a mask. We will also measure their blood pressure and pulse, and take blood samples. To prevent hypothermia, we will cover them with warm blankets. Your child will also be given medication to reduce pain. We will then examine your child for burns and any other injuries. For major burns, we will give your child additional fluids through an IV.

To get a good idea of the cause and severity of the burns, we will ask you how the accident happened, when and exactly what happened, whether the burn was cooled, whether your child is taking any medication, whether your child has been hospitalized before, and whether they are vaccinated.

Examination

We assess the extent and depth of the burns and take photographs for the medical record. We also take wound cultures to assess bacterial growth. Initially, your child will receive an ointment treatment, and we will formulate an initial treatment plan.

Risks

The severity of the burn depends on its depth, size, location, your child's age, and any additional injuries. The skin is the body's largest organ and has a protective function. Skin burns cause the skin to lose some of its important functions. This may lead to moisture loss and infection risk from bacteria. The body loses heat and cannot maintain its temperature.