ETHOS

I burned my foot with hot water, and it's swollen and painful even after taking painkillers.

Patient

Hi, I was hoping someone could help me with a problem I'm experiencing. I'm quite concerned and not sure what to do next.

Triage Assistant

Where does it hurt?

Patient

It's my foot that's causing me a lot of pain and discomfort.

Triage Assistant

When did the pain in your foot start?

Patient

The pain started earlier today.

Triage Assistant

Is there any visible injury, such as a burn or blister, on your foot?

Patient

Yes, there is a noticeable burn on my foot.

Triage Assistant

How large is the burn? Try to estimate it by comparing it to the size of your palm.

Patient

The burn is roughly about the size of my palm.

Triage Assistant

Are there any blisters on the burn?

Patient

Yes, there are some blisters on the burn.

Triage Assistant

How severe is the pain on a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 is mild pain that doesn't interfere with normal activities, and 10 is excruciating pain, unable to do any normal activities?

Patient

The pain is around an 8. It's very uncomfortable and it's hard to put any weight on my foot.

Triage Assistant

Given the severity of your pain and the presence of blisters, it is important to seek medical attention. You should go to the Emergency Department (ED) immediately. In the meantime, here is some first aid you can follow: 1. Cool the burn with cool running water for 20 minutes. 2. If cool running water is not available, put a cold wet washcloth on the burn. 3. Do not take time to remove any clothing. 4. Cooling the skin helps stop the burn from getting worse and alleviates pain. Please proceed to the ED as soon as possible. Thank you for calling, goodbye.

Dispositions

  • Call EMS 911 Now

  • See More Appropriate Protocol

  • Go to ED Now

  • Go to ED/UCC Now (or to Office With PCP Approval)

  • Go to Office Now

  • See in Office Today

  • See in Office Today or Tomorrow

  • See in Office Within 3 Days

  • Home Care

  • Triage result should be Go to Office Now.

  • Incomplete first aid advice given.

  • Some assessment questions asked.