First Aid: Burns, CO Poisoning, and Chest Wounds

Treating Burns

For burns, the immediate goals are to relieve pain, prevent infection, and treat for shock.

• First- and second-degree burns with closed blisters are best treated with cold water.
  • Immerse the burned area, or cover it with cloths that have been soaked in cold water—don’t use ice water.
  • Avoid using butter or any type of greasy ointment because they can interfere with healing and cause an allergic reaction.
• Second- and third-degree burns with open blisters should be wrapped with a loose, dry dressing.

Treating Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Improperly working camp stoves and lanterns, as well as wood and charcoal fires, can produce lethal carbon monoxide.

• Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, dizziness, weakness, and difficulty in breathing. The victim’s skin can turn red, and he or she can lose consciousness.
• Get victims into fresh air immediately, and keep them lying quietly. Prompt medical care is essential.

Treating a Chest Wound

A bullet striking the chest can cause a sucking chest wound—a deep, open wound of the chest wall that allows air into the chest cavity.

• All chest injuries are very serious and need immediate medical attention.
• To respond immediately to a chest wound:
  • Use the palm of your hand to cover the wound until a bandage is located.
  • Cover the wound with sterile gauze, a clean cloth, plastic, or foil.
  • Make sure the wound cover forms an airtight seal.
  • Hold the gauze in place with a bandage or tape.
  • If the victim has trouble breathing, remove the bandage, and replace it quickly.
  • Transport the victim to the hospital with the injured side down.