Burn Injury
A 2018 press release by the American College of Surgeons reported that burn deaths have decreased significantly in the last thirty years because treatments and protocols have improved. The most powerful predictors of whether a burn will be fatal include a person’s age, the size of the burn area, and whether there was inhalation injury. However, even if a burn victim survives, there will be a recovery period and possibly some disfigurement that they must learn to live with. If the burns were caused by another person’s negligence, the victim can seek financial compensation for their injuries through a personal injury claim. Our attorneys at the office of Mark H. Wright can help with that.
Types of Burns
Burns can be caused by chemicals, electrical current, radiation, or heat. Certain work environments pose a greater burn threat because of the exposure to one of these elements, such as the cooking stove in a commercial kitchen or the exposed electrical wiring on a construction site. The three stages of burns include:
First-degree burns – These burns only impact the outermost layer of skin, the epidermis. The skin will appear red but the skin damage is minimal. After several days the skin may peel, which is an indication that it is healing. There is no scarring associated with first-degree burns.
Second-degree burns – These burns are more serious because the damage goes deeper and will cause blistering. During the healing time it is possible for the skin to become infected so proper wound care is important. Second-degree burns can cause pigment changes but will not leave scarring. If the burn area is large it may require skin grafting or emergency medical treatment.
Third-degree burns – If the burned area looks white or charred, it is a third-degree burn. These burns destroy the epidermis, dermis, and nerve endings. Muscle, tendon, and bone can also be damaged.
Some medical facilities have entire burn units to treat patients. Specialists such as plastic surgeons, respiratory therapists, orthopedic surgeons, infectious disease specialists, and physical therapists are all necessary to recover from extensive third-degree burns.
The Psychological Impact of a Burn Injury
Burn injuries do not just affect the victim physically. Stanford Health Care points out that burn patients often experience the following psychological symptoms:
- Nightmares;
- Depression;
- Flashbacks to the event that caused the burns;
- Emotional grief over what else was lost during the event such as another person, a limb or even a possession;
- Social withdrawal;
- Avoidance of places that remind them of the event; and
- More.
These symptoms must also be treated for a burn victim to make a full recovery. Furthermore, the emotional distress that a victim experiences can put additional strain on their job, personal relationships, and physical health. To help cope, the victim may require help from a psychologist, psychiatrist, social worker, or counselor.
Contact the Trusted Burn Injury Attorneys at the Office of Mark H. Wright, PLLC
The office of Mark H. Wright, PLLC understand how difficult burn injuries can be, both physically and psychologically. While you focus on recovering, we can handle the legal work and advocate on your behalf for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at 813-425-2020 to schedule a free case evaluation.
