BURNS AND SCALDS.
In severe cases the constitutional treatment is of more importance than the application of local remedies. If the patient is in shock wrap him in warm blankets, and give him stimulants. In superficial cases where the skin is not broken powder with bicarbonate of soda (baking soda). A ready domestic application is sweet oil. Exclude the air at all times. When vesicles have been produced they should be punctured with a sharp instrument, and the serum gently evacuated with absorbent cotton. Apply soothing ointments or wet dressings. In case of severe burns of the body immerse the patient in a warm bath, keeping it at even temperature. Separating a layer of common white cotton wadding, and wrapping it about the injured part will allay the pain, and the cotton has the advantage of not adhering to the raw surface. Splints and bandages should be employed to prevent contractions.