Boiling water is a common source of burn injuries. Water boils at a temperature of 100 degrees C, which can damage any skin tissue that comes into contact with the water. Burns come in three different degrees: first, second and third degree burns. The degree of the burn depends on how much of the skin tissue is destroyed; thinner skin is more likely to develop third degree burns due to the low amounts of skin tissue. Minor burns can be treated at home, whereas more severe burns require medical attention.
Step 1
Assess the damage. Burns are classified as first, second or third degree burns in order of increasing severity. First and second degree burns are typically very painful, whereas third degree burns result in little or no pain because the nerve endings are damaged. Third degree burns also cause the skin to appear charred or white; these burns require immediate medical care and cannot be treated at home. Third degree burns are rare with boiling water because they require the affected skin to be exposed to the heat source for multiple seconds. If the burn blisters or is red in color, it is a first or second degree burn, and can be treated with first aid.
Step 2
Cool the burn. Applying cool water to the burned surface will help prevent further tissue damage. This can be done by immersing the burned air in a reservoir of cool water, by running tap water over it, or by soaking a washcloth or rag in water and placing it on the affected area, notes MayoClinic.com. Do not use ice or ice-water, as this will only further damage the skin.
Step 3
Apply antibiotic ointment. Antibiotic ointments such as silver sulfadiazine will help keep bacteria from getting in the wound, explains the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. It also provides a seal over the injury. Antibiotic creams can be purchased over-the-counter from most drugstores.
Step 4
Cover the burned area. This is best done using a sterile gauze bandage; avoid any dressing with adhesives or any covering, such as cotton, which could deposit lint in the wound. Wrap the dressing loosely around the burn so as not to put any pressure on the damaged tissue. Change the dressing every day.
Step 5
Monitor for infection. Signs of an infected burn wound include red streaks emanating from the burned area, increased swelling, oozing and a fever. Infected burn injuries can be very dangerous, particularly if the infection is allowed to spread. If you are concerned about an infection, contact a medical professional to determine if further treatment is necessary.
Things You'll Need
- Cool water
- Sterile gauze bandage
- Antibiotic ointment
