AboutJim 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.
Question I burnt my forearm with a curling iron about two and a half weeks ago. It blistered, then popped, then dried out. It must have itched a lot because on night in my sleep i scratched it to the point it bleed and there were tiny blood bubbles on the surface. I put Melaluca gel on it and i must have been allergic or something be cause it got irritated and swollen and there are hundreds of little red bumps on the surface of the burn. I put benadryl cream on it now but I do not know what to do. Do I need to see a doctor about this? I am not sure what is happening with my burn?
Answer Hi Lisa,
This sounds very much like an infection. I would call the doctor immediately so that he can start you on antibiotics and evaluate the injury. This is important, so don't delay! In the mean time wash it thoroughly with soap and water coat with Neosporin and cover with a sterile gauze dressing.
