Treating Burns From Cooking

The holiday season is here, and for many, that means cooking and preparing their home for family and friends. One preventable injury that can often happen while rushing through the holiday prep is a cooking burn. If one does occur, it’s important not to panic and act swiftly to avoid infection. Here’s what you should know:

Cool It and Check it

When a burn occurs, the first thing you’ll want to do is remove any clothing or jewelry around the area. Cool the area with water (not ice) to reduce the pain, and minimize any swelling. Keep the area immersed or under running cold water for 15 to 20 minutes. Once you’ve cooled off the area, you’ll want to assess the burn to see if medical attention is needed.

Identifying a Mild Burn

A mild burn will be red, painful, dry, and cause minor swelling. A severe bun is often extremely red and blisters immediately. You also might be sore and have a splotchy pattern in the affected area.

Protecting a Burn

You’ll want to keep the area covered with a sterile and non-adhesive bandage. This will keep your chances for infection low. The sooner you cover it, the safer it will be. Apply a petroleum-based ointment a few times per day, but avoid any lotions, oils, or creams. If pain occurs, you may take over-the-counter pain relievers.

When to head to the Walk-in Clinic

Small blisters may appear a few hours after the burn. Leave them be and avoid popping them, as this can lead to infection.

If a blister is bigger than a quarter, you’ll want to head to the Walk-in Clinic in Gillette, Wyoming. Medical care is necessary if the burn involves your face, fingers, or hands, seems infected, or is three inches in diameter. If blisters immediately appear or the burn goes through the muscle or bone, you’ll want to head to the doctor immediately.

If a mild burn does occur during your holiday preparing, we can provide you with the personal and quality care you need. Save your spot in line or walk-in today!

Learn more at www.cchwyo.org/wic.