Burns

Call 911 if:

The burn is extensive (the size of your palm or larger).
The burn is severe (third degree).
You aren't sure how serious it is.
The burn is caused by chemicals or electricity.
The person shows signs of shock.
The person inhaled smoke.
Physical abuse is the known or suspected cause of the burn.

Call a doctor if your pain is still present after 48 hours.

Call immediately if signs of infection develop. These signs include increased pain, redness, swelling, drainage or pus from the burn, swollen lymph nodes, red streaks spreading from the burn, or fever.

Also call immediately if there are signs of dehydration: thirst, dry skin, dizziness, lightheadedness, or decreased urination. Children, elderly, and anyone with a weakened immune system (e.g., HIV) should be seen right away.

References:

Marx JA, Hockberger RS, Walls RM, eds. Rosen?s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 5^th Ed. St. Louis, Mo.: London: Mosby; 2002:801-813.

Townsend, Jr., CM, ed. Sabiston Textbook of Surgery. 17^th Ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2004:570-591.

Roberts JR, Hedges JR, eds. Clinical Procedures in Emergency Medicine. 4^th Ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders; 2004:749-766.