Burns/2nd degree burns

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Expert: Jim B - 12/5/2008


Question
How do we reduce swelling on feet and ankles associated with 2nd degree burns on both legs and feet (a 7% burn )

Answer
Hi Eileen,

Best way to reduce swelling in a second degree burn is to keep to burn cool, quiet and well dressed. To this I would emphasize washing the burn with soap and water, cover the burn with Silvadene or neosporin, cover the burn completely with fresh gauze and wrap it with a firm coating of sterile guaze. This should be expexted to be needed for at least 3 to 5 days. Then neosporin to be used for at least another 6 to 8 additional days. Keep it firmly wraped for the dressing for at least a total of 12 to 14 days.

Jim  

Burns

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Jim B

Expertise

I can answer a variety of questions concerning the physical care of burns and burn patients which commonly are of interest to both patients and their families. Also I may be helpful in suggesting lifestyle modifications which will help with a more complete recovery from a serious burn. I can also accept questions regarding the physical classifications of burns and the implications regarding the size, depth, and location of burns. What I cannot answer based on my own knowledge and experience I can refer to my current and former collegues in the field including the plastic and trauma surgeons and burn recovery organizations. In many of these cases I will provide a line of communication directly to a specific expert or organization. While I can describe general treatments routines with which I am experienced,I cannot answer questions dealing with specifuc diagnosis of conditions or problems. Additionally, please understand that the area of burn treatments is an experimental one in which there is constant progress and change. Each Burn Center invests a major effort in the development of new materials, treatments, medications, and techniques. In this area of constant change and growth no one can be fully aware of all treatment courses employed.

Experience

I am a licensed Paramedic and have also worked as a wound technician in a large regional Burn Center in a Trauma Level 1 hospital. I have experience in the areas of burn evaluation and care, both long-term and immediate first aid. I have also worked as a volunteer couselor with post-burn patients dealing with issues ranging from life-style changes to re-entering the world as a serious burn survivor.

Education/Credentials
BA Economics and Biology, AA Health Care Management, EMT-P licensed in Missouri, ABLS (Advanced Burn Life Support)qulification, ACLS-EP (Advanced Cardiac Life Support-Experienced Provider), Former National Ski Patrol Winter Emergency Care Instructor and Senior Evaluator, Emergency Medical Technician and Paramedic Instructor.

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