Burn injuries can cause significant discomfort and pain, which can last a long time after an accident. Recovering from burns often requires ongoing medical treatment, physical therapy and plastic surgery. If another person’s negligence caused you to suffer a burn injury, it is important that you understand your right to compensation.
The skilled Cincinnati burn injury attorneys at O’Connor, Acciani & Levy can discuss your rights and legal options during a free initial consultation. It is important that you seek immediate medical attention for your burns and then legal advocacy to protect your interests.
Treating Burn Injuries
The treatment for burns depends on the degree of injury. This is based on the severity of the injury and how deep the wound goes. Treatment may include the following:
First-degree Burns
First-degree burns are considered the least serious because they only affect the outer layer of the skin. Individuals with these burns may experience pain and redness. Treatment may include applying cool, wet compresses to the affected area until it is no longer painful. Sterile gauze may be wrapped around the impacted part. However, if the burn is spread to sensitive areas of the body, emergency medical attention may be necessary.
Second-degree Burns
Second-degree burns go deeper, penetrating the second layer of skin, called the dermis. Individuals with this type of burn may experience symptoms, such as:
- Swelling
- Red, white or splotchy skin
- The appearance of blisters
- Scarring
- Severe pain
Treatment may include the use of cold, wet compresses for 10 to 15 minutes, sterile gauze and the application of over-the-counter pain relievers. Any blisters should not be broken. Ointments or butter should not be applied to burns because they may cause infection. Those around the victim should take steps to prevent shock, such as covering the victim with a blanket and elevating the feet about one foot off the ground.
Third-degree Burns
Third-degree burns are considered the most serious because the burn extends to the fatty layer below the skin. Any burned area may be black in appearance and the skin may appear leathery. Individuals with this type of burn may suffer from the destruction of nerves. They are treated with the application of bandages or towels to the impacted areas. The victim should rest and elevate the burned area above his or her head.
Immediate Emergency medical assistance should be sought if the burn is deep, affecting layers of the skin, covers the face or sensitive areas of the body or seems serious.
Preventative Measures
There are many ways to prevent these burns. Three of the most common types of burns and ways to prevent them include:
Chemical Burns
Chemical burns occur when a corrosive or caustic material like a cleaner or solvent comes in contact with the skin. Chemical burns can be avoided by keeping dangerous chemicals out of reach of others, ensuring that they are sealed properly and locking them up. Employers when purchasing chemicals should select chemicals that are less toxic in case of exposure.
Electrical Burns
Electrical burns are caused by electric currents, arcs or sparks. These burns can be prevented by installing outlet plug covers, carefully using extension cords, not exceeding the load rating when plugging in devices and other items into an outlet, throwing away worn cords and unplugging things before moving them. Electrical devices should also not be used near water.
Thermal Burns
Thermal burns are caused by a direct heat source, including a flame, stove, industrial equipment or steam. Thermal burns can be prevented by showing caution around materials that are hot, including industrial machinery and hot liquids. If a person has sustained a thermal burn, it is important not to approach him or her until the power for the device has been turned off, you have disconnected the plug, or the victim is not surrounded by electricity.
Contact A Personal Injury Lawyer Now
Burn injuries can often lead to years of extensive medical treatment and recovery. Medical bills may mount while the victim is unable to return to work. Many accidents that lead to burn injuries are preventable if you demonstrate the proper degree of care and caution.
The skilled Cincinnati personal injury lawyers at O’Connor, Acciani & Levy can discuss your legal options and see if you have a viable personal injury claim. We help burn injury victims pursue maximum compensation for the injuries that they have suffered. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation case consultation.
Call us now at (877) 288-3241, or fill out our Free Case Evaluation form.