How to Treat an Infected Burn

Burns are serious injuries that must be handled delicately and carefully. If a burn area becomes infected, the infection can spread and become much more serious than the original burn. You can take a number of steps to treat an infected burn.

Things You'll Need

• Antibacterial ointment
• Cotton pads
• Gauze
• Aspirin or other pain reliever

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Instructions

Treating an Infected Burn

• 1

  Cover the wound with a medical-grade cotton pad.

• 2

  Wrap the wound in gauze to hold the cotton pad securely, but not so tight as to affect circulation.

• 3

  Change the gauze and cotton at least every two days.

• 4

  Clean the wound regularly and gently with soap and cool water. Apply antibacterial ointment.

• 5

  Take aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever as needed to reduce pain, but do not exceed the manufacturer's directions or doctor recommendation.

• 6

  If pain or infection persists, see a doctor immediately.