Dr. Ayesha Shilpi's Advice on Treating Burn Patients

Photo: Collected

Dr. Ayesha Akhter: Treating Burn Injuries with Caution and Care
Deputy Director, 250-Bed TB Hospital

Burn injuries are serious medical emergencies, and their treatment depends largely on the depth and extent of the burn. According to Dr. Ayesha Akhter, immediate primary care followed by specialist consultation is essential in managing such cases effectively.

Common Mistakes and the Need for Awareness

Burn patients are often subjected to incorrect treatment due to confusion about what should or should not be done. In many cases, a lack of proper knowledge results in harmful interventions. Dr. Akhter stresses the importance of remaining calm, acting wisely, and taking the patient to a hospital as soon as possible.

Burn Symptoms May Include:

• Intense pain

• Redness of skin

• Formation of blisters

• Skin peeling

• Swelling

• Burning sensation

First Response: Immediate Actions in Case of Burns

Start primary treatment as quickly as possible. The first step is to remove the patient from the source of heat immediately.

If the Body Catches Fire:

• Roll the person on the ground

• Cover them with a thick blanket

• Use water or a fire extinguisher to smother the flames

• If clothes catch fire, remove them immediately

If Legs or Lower Body Is Burned:

• Lay the patient down and elevate their legs

• Do not give any food or drink—it may cause infection if it enters the airway, which can become life-threatening

Wound Protection & Transport

• Cover the burn wound with clean, sterile gauze

• If unavailable, use any clean and disinfected cloth

• If face or eyes are burned, keep the patient seated

• In case of lower body burns, keep them lying down with elevated legs

• Again, do not give anything orally

Cooling the Burn Site

As primary first aid, cool the burned area with cold water or ice for 10–20 minutes.
Then cover the area with a clean cloth or gauze and transport the patient to the hospital without delay.
If blisters form, do not puncture or treat them at home, as it could cause infection.

With calm handling and proper medical care, even severe burn patients can recover. But immediate response, awareness, and correct first aid are key to ensuring survival and preventing long-term damage.