b'Chapter hapterHow to Manage mmediately flood the area with continuous cool running water for at least 20 minutes. IHydrogel dressings or gel are suitable alternatives when water is not available.Call Ambulance 000.Protect the burned area from the ground if possible.While cooling the area, be alert for any signs of breathing difficulty.Immediately remove smouldering clothing (unless already stuck to the skin), shoes,belt etc, as clothing tends to trap heat.If possible, remove any rings, watch, bracelets, without causing further tissue damage, asjewellery restricts circulation when swelling occurs.Avoid pulling clothing across the patients face or burned area.Cut around any clothing that may be stuck to the wound (do not pull it).Continue to relieve the burn with cool water or wet compresses.Keep cooling until the skin temperature returns to normal. Be careful not to overcool the burn because this may result in dangerous lowering of the body temperature (hypothermia).Cover the burned area with a dry non-adherent dressing. Always use a sterile dressingif possible or improvise by using a clean sheet, plastic kitchen wrap, triangular bandage or clean plastic bag in order to protect and minimise infection.Secure the dressing lightly with a bandage or tape over the plastic or sheet, not directly overthe skin.If possible, elevate burned limbs as this helps minimise swelling and shock.Keep the patient lightly covered.Rest, reassure and comfort.Closely monitor patient for response, airway, normal breathing while waiting for Ambulance. Burns and Scalds 121'