Treat minor burns effectively

Most minor burns can be safely managed in primary care. In the third article of our ABC of burns (p 1487), Hudspith and Rayatt give some important tips on how to treat patients with minor burns. The first aid given can influence the final cosmetic outcome: stopping the burning process, prompt cooling with tepid tap water, covering the burn (cling film is ideal), and keeping the patient warm is paramount. Burns should be kept clean, but routine use of antibiotics should be discouraged, say the authors. If the burns have not healed within two weeks, refer the patients to a burn surgeon.