One of the hazards of using an electric iron in smoothen out wrinkles on clothing is burns. Most cases of iron burns are minor and the first aid care focuses on pain relief, preventing infection and further damage to the burned skin.
What you need to know about an electric iron
A hot electric iron can cause a burn once it gets in contact with the skin. The severity of the iron burn depends on where the iron gets in contact with the skin and how long it touched the skin. A brief contact on the edges of your hand can cause a minor burn that will leave a red mark on the skin and pain that fades quickly. On the other hand, if the flat side of the iron falls against the delicate skin on the interior of the arm, it can cause a severe burn that require proper care. The treatment for an iron burn is carried out in stages.
Immediate treatment
If immediate treatment to an iron burn is provided, it will help reduce the severity of the burn and improve the chances of preventing infection or scarring. In case of a minor burn and the skin is not broken, the first aid care involves putting the affected area under cool running water or place a cool wet towel over the skin to relieve the pain. Avoid applying ice directly on the skin since it can cause more tissue damage.
How to protect the burned area
Once you have applied cooling relief to the iron burn and the pain has subsided, the next stage of treatment is to protect the burn. Take note that not only pressure and friction from an iron burn can cause pain, but it can also cause more damage to the skin tissue and disrupt the healing process. The affected area must be covered using sterile gauze. In case blisters form, avoid breaking them since these will leave them prone to infection. Once the burn has completely healed, you have to instruct the individual to apply sunscreen over it he/she goes outside to protect the new skin.
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Pain relief
A burn from an electric iron can be painful. You have to protect the burn from pressure or rubbing to help prevent pain and take over-the-counter medications for pain such as acetaminophen or aspirin. Most cases of minor burns do not need a strong pain management.
Treating severe burns
Iron burns that are severe are less common but it would require immediate medical care. While waiting for the medical team to arrive or on the way to the hospital, you have to keep the affected area properly elevated and avoid any friction and pressure. Avoid bathing the burned skin in water or use any type of ointment.
When using an electric iron on clothing, always be careful since it can become too hot and can cause burns on the skin.