A first degree
burn is superficial and has
similar characteristics to a typical sun burn.
The skin is red in color and sensation is intact.
In fact, it is usually somewhat painful.
Second
degree burns look similar to the first degree
burns; however, the damage
is now severe enough to cause blistering of the
skin and the pain is usually somewhat more
intense.
In third
degree burns, the damage
has progressed to the point of skin death. The
skin is white and without sensation.
In fourth
degree burns there is no pain, the patient will go into shock
rapidly, and loss of necessary fluids is imminent
death.
Skin is the body's first
defense against infection by microorganisms.
Damage to the skin can predispose the burn victim
to both infection at the site of the wound as
well as internally.
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