Second-degree burns (also known as partial thickness burns) involve the epidermis and part of the dermis layer of skin. The burn site appears red, blistered, and may be swollen and painful. In most cases, partial thickness second-degree burns are caused by the following:
The following are the most common signs and symptoms of a partial thickness second-degree burn. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
The symptoms of a second-degree burn may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Consult your child's doctor for a diagnosis. Superficial second-degree burns usually heal in about three weeks, as long as the wound is kept clean and protected. Deep second-degree burns may take longer than three weeks to heal. Specific treatment for a second-degree burn will be determined by your child's physician, based on the following:
A second-degree burn that does not cover more than 10 percent of the skin's surface can usually be treated in an outpatient setting. Treatment depends on the severity of the burn and may include the following:
Wound cleaning and dressing changes may be painful. In these cases, an analgesic (pain reliever) may need to be given. In addition, any blisters that have formed should not be burst. |