b. Emergency Treatment. Minor burns should be covered with sterile gauze compresses (pads) from
a first aid kit to protect the burned area from infection. If no sterile dressing is available, leave the burn
uncovered. In serious burns, your prime consideration is to note any burn shock the patient may suffer
and treat him for such shock. Burn shock usually occurs when a second-degree burn, or worse, covers
more than 15 percent of the body's surface area.
(1) Treat for burn shock. Shock is a condition of great weakness of the body. It can result in
death. Severe burns cause shock. The casualty has extreme thirst, is restless and disoriented,
and may be vomiting, nervous, and sweaty. To prevent or treat for shock, make him
comfortable. Loosen his belt and clothes. Handle him very gently. Put him in a comfortable
position, such as lying down or sitting; lying down lets the blood flow to his brain and may
keep him from passing out. If he is conscious, is not vomiting, and has no belly injury, give
him small amounts of cool or cold water to which you have added salt or salt and baking
soda. Dissolve 4 salt tablets or 1/2 teaspoonful of loose salt per quart of cool or cold water.
Give the solution to the casualty gradually, a few sips every few minutes. Then slowly
increase the amount until he is drinking about 1/3 of a canteen cup every hour. This solution
helps
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