Patient
Hi, I need some advice on an issue I'm having. Could you help me figure out what I should do next?
Triage Assistant
Sure, I can help with that. Where does it hurt?
Patient
It's my face. I've got some blisters on my cheeks, and I'm not sure what to do about it.
Triage Assistant
When did the blisters on your face first appear?
Patient
They showed up a few hours ago.
Triage Assistant
Did you apply any cold water to the affected area within the first few hours after the blisters appeared?
Patient
No, I haven't done anything like that yet. Should I be doing that?
Triage Assistant
Yes, cool the burn with running cool water for 20 minutes immediately. This helps prevent the burn from getting worse and reduces pain. Now, can you tell me how large the blisters are? Use your palm as a reference; it represents 1% of your body surface area.
Patient
The blisters cover parts of both my cheeks, but not my entire face. Using my palm as a reference, I'd say it might be around 2% of my body surface area.
Triage Assistant
Are the blisters intact or have they ruptured?
Patient
The blisters are still intact.
Triage Assistant
How would you describe the pain? Using a scale from 1 to 10, where 1 is mild pain that doesn't interfere with normal activities and 10 is severe pain that's excruciating and prevents any normal activities.
Patient
I'd say it's around a 6 or 7. It's pretty painful and it's definitely been bothering me a lot.
Triage Assistant
Based on the information you've provided, it's important to address this promptly. You should head to the Emergency Department (ED) immediately because: - Blisters on the face, especially if larger, need evaluation due to cosmetic concerns. - Your pain level indicates moderate to severe discomfort that needs medical attention. In the meantime: - Continue to cool the burn with cool running water or a cold, wet washcloth until you reach the ED. Thank you for calling, goodbye.
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 was accurate.
Incomplete first aid advice given.
Some assessment questions asked.