Atrium Health Navicent Primary Care Internal and Family Medicine North Macon

Care of Minor Injuries

Nurse putting a bandage on a small boy's knee

Minor Burns

People get minor burns in a variety of circumstances. They can get minor ankle injuries from accidentally splashing hot water on their feet. Someone could get minor back injuries from staying in the sun for too long. Under these circumstances, the care of minor injuries becomes vitally important.

When you first get a burn, the proper care for minor injuries involves determining the type you have. Here are the three types of burns:

  • First Degree: A minor burn; the burn turns red and might swell.
  • Second Degree: This burn forms blisters; here the skin becomes red, making the injury painful.
  • Third Degree: This is when the skin appears to be charred and white; Nerve damage can occur at this point.

Treat the burn by soaking it in water for at least 5 minutes. Soothe the area using an Aloe Vera lotion, antibiotic ointment, or antiseptic spray. Cover the burn with a gauze pad and use ibuprofen for pain.

To treat sunburn, cover the burn with a damp washcloth. You can also take a bath or shower with cool water. Make sure you pat not rub your skin dry, as your skin may be sore due to the sunburn. Apply an Aloe Vera or hydrocortisone lotion to the sunburned area. Stay hydrated for the next few days.

Poison Ivy

Poison ivy rashes are caused by the plant's oil. Even though the rash can go away on its own after a few weeks, here are some ways you can care for this minor injury:

  • Wash your skin and everything you touched. You can get another rash if you touch clothing that has the oil of the poison ivy plant on them.
  • Take a bath and add oatmeal or baking soda to the water. This can give you relief from the itching.
  • Make sure that you do not scratch!