Patient
Hi, I need some advice on a medical issue I'm having.
Triage Assistant
Where does it hurt?
Patient
It's on my arm.
Triage Assistant
When did the burn happen?
Patient
It happened earlier today.
Triage Assistant
Where exactly on your arm is the burn located?
Patient
It's on my forearm.
Triage Assistant
How large is the burn? Use the size of your palm as a reference; the palm is roughly 1% of your total body surface area (BSA).
Patient
The burn area is smaller than my palm, probably less than 1% of my total body surface area.
Triage Assistant
Are there any blisters on the burn?
Patient
Yes, there are some blisters. They're smaller than 1 inch each.
Triage Assistant
How did the burn happen?
Patient
I accidentally spilled some hot oil on my arm while cooking.
Triage Assistant
On a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being mild pain that doesn't interfere with activities and 10 being excruciating pain that prevents any activity, how would you rate your pain?
Patient
I'd rate it around a 4. It's quite uncomfortable but not unbearable.
Triage Assistant
Were you exposed to any smoke or fumes during the incident?
Patient
No, it was just the oil spill, no smoke or fumes were involved.
Triage Assistant
Do you have any other symptoms, such as headache or nausea?
Patient
No, I don't have any other symptoms like headache or nausea, just the burn on my arm.
Triage Assistant
You can likely manage this burn at home. Here are some steps to take: 1. **Cool the Burn**: Run cool (not cold) water over the burn for about 20 minutes. If running water isn't available, use a cold, wet washcloth. 2. **Keep It Clean**: Gently wash the area with warm water once a day. Avoid using soap unless the burn is dirty. 3. **Blisters**: - Do not pop or open any intact blisters. - If any blisters rupture, gently wipe away the dead skin with wet gauze or a wet washcloth. 4. **Pain Relief**: For the pain, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen, following the dosing instructions on the package. 5. **Dressing the Burn**: Apply an antibiotic ointment to a clean bandage and cover the burn. Change the bandage every other day. If you notice signs of infection (increased redness, pus, red streaks, increased tenderness) or if the pain becomes severe, seek medical attention. Thank you for calling, goodbye.
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Home Care
Triage result was accurate.
Incomplete first aid advice given.
All assesssment questions asked.