Determining the Seriousness of a Burn
Overview
The seriousness of a burn is determined by:
- The depth of the burn (first-, second-, third-, or fourth-degree).
- The size of the burn.
- The cause (thermal, electrical, chemical, radiation, or friction).
- The part of the body where the burn occurred.
- The age and health of the burn victim.
- Other injuries.
What to think about
It is important to watch for signs of infection during the healing of any burn.
Credits
Current as of: March 22, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
H. Michael O'Connor MD - Emergency Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
Current as of: March 22, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & H. Michael O'Connor MD - Emergency Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine