BURNS AND SCALDS 



Assume a very different appearance according to the degree 

 of heat or violence by which they are occasioned; if slight, and 

 the skin only irritated, they are easily cured by instantly dashing 

 the part affected in cold water, or constantly applying it till the 

 pain and irritation have ceased ; if slight blisters rise they should 

 not be opened at first, as is generally recommended ; for if the air 

 penetrates it frequently produces an ulcer or sore. When a burn 

 or scald is more severe, it must be constantly kept wet with rag 

 dipped in the following lotion : 



Goulard's extract of lead, two drams 



water, half a pint 



and the part kept as quiet as possible. Strong spirits, or oil of 

 turpentine is also serviceable when immediately applied, but 

 the lotion is the most successful treatment either in scalds or 

 burns. After the third or fourth day the blisters should be 

 opened, but the skin not removed, and then dressed with the fol- 

 lowing ointment : - 



Olive oil, half an ounce 



Goulard's extract of lead, one ounce 



well mixed together, and spread on lint or soft rag with a bandage 

 over moderately tight. 



When burns or scalds are so severe as to destroy the flesh 

 from the bone, warm poultices of oatmeal and water should be 

 applied, and then treated as suppuration. See the article Wounds, 

 &c. page 79. 



