Burn injuries can be some of the most painful injuries that Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) encounter. Providing proper care can reduce complications in patients that have sustained non life threatening burns and increase survivability for patients with critical burns. Here’s an overview of how EMTs handle burn injuries:
Initial Assessment and Safety
Scene Safety: EMTs first ensure the scene is safe for themselves and the patient. They check for hazards such as live wires, flammable materials, or ongoing fires. EMTs that are firefighters may be involved in the rescue of the patient and putting out the fire. For EMTs that are working an ambulance, they will, with Paramedics in many cases, provide the patient care to the burn victims.
Initial Assessment: Like every other patient, EMTs initial focus when providing patient care focuses on maintaining airway, breathing, and circulation (the ABCs).
Immediate Care and Stabilization
Stop the Burning Process: The first step in burn treatment is to stop the burning process or “cool” the burn and EMTs follow their local protocols to accomplish this. The method EMTs use can vary from area to area so it is important they know and follow their local protocols. They do not use ice or very cold water as it can cause additional injury.
Prevent Hypothermia: Despite the burn, patients are at risk of hypothermia. EMTs keep the patient warm using blankets and by minimizing exposure.
Detailed Assessment and Transport
Secondary Assessment: Once the patient is stabilized, EMTs perform a more detailed assessment, looking for and treating other injuries.
Transport Decision: EMTs decide on the best transport method and destination based on the severity of the burns and available resources. Patients with serious burns are often transported to specialized burn centers for advanced care.
Communication and Coordination
Communication: EMTs communicate with the receiving hospital or burn center to provide details about the patient’s condition, treatment given, and estimated time of arrival.
Documentation: Accurate documentation of the burn injury, treatment, and patient response is essential for ongoing care and medical records.
Emotional Support
Reassurance: Burn injuries can be traumatic for patients. EMTs also provide emotional support for the badly burned patient and explain each step of the care process.
Handling burn injuries requires swift and proper actions. With proper training and by following their local protocols, EMTs can help improve patient outcomes.
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