What layers of skin can be injured from a burn?

The skin is the body’s first layer of defense. Our skin protects us from thousands of infections and illnesses. However, when our skin experiences a burn, the injury can affect our skin’s ability to protect the rest of our bodies. The first layer of our skin is the epidermis, which is the top layer of skin. When this layer of skin endures damage, it usually stems from a first-degree burn. The next layer is the dermis, which is a thicker underlayer of skin. Because there are nerve endings near the dermis, a person experiences pain with a second-degree burn, which damages both the dermis and the epidermis. The next layer is the hypodermis, which is the layer of skin that helps regulate the body’s temperature. When a burn reaches this layer of skin, the damage can be so severe that a person cannot feel the pain from the injury. This is considered a third-degree burn.

What is the initial treatment for a burn injury?

The severity of a burn injury determines the treatment the victim will need. For example, a first-degree burn requires a daily cleaning of the wound with soap and water. Over-the counter ointments like Neosporin can also be applied to the burn. Second-degree burns, on the other hand, require compression of the wound in cold water for 10 to 15 minutes. If a person is experiencing blisters, experts advise not to break them, as this can lead to infection. With a second-degree burn, the victim is at risk of suffering from shock. If possible, cover the person with a blanket or coat and elevate the injured area above the person’s heart. Out of all burn injuries, a third-degree burn requires the most intervention from medical professionals. Without the assistance of emergency medical services, a person can suffer serious consequences or even die from these types of burns. Some of the types of treatment procedures for a third-degree burn include fluid resuscitation, long-term care management, skin grafting, pain medications, cosmetic reconstruction, and even a high-protein diet to help with recovery.

Can burn injuries cause delirium?

Another complication of burn injuries is the development of delirium in patients. Delirium - the interruption of a person’s mental abilities, leading to confused thinking and reduced awareness - is the most common neurological side effect of severe burn injuries. After a burn injury, a person can experience three types of delirium: hyperactive, hypoactive, and mixed.

$1 Million Settlement Secured on Behalf of Motorcycle Accident Victim

By Matthew McNicholas | July 28, 2022

Partner Patrick McNicholas and Attorney Jeffrey R. Lamb, along with Todd Becker of Becker Law Group, obtained a $1 million settlement on behalf of a motorcyclist who was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident.

The Plaintiff was traveling north on Skyway in the City of Paradise, CA on his Harley Davidson when a driver operating a company car attempted to make an illegal U-turn across a double yellow line directly in front of the Plaintiff. The Plaintiff was unable to avoid a collision, causing him to be thrown off his motorcycle to the ground. He was seriously injured and experienced pain and suffering due to the accident.

Matthew McNicholas

As one of the leading trial lawyers in California, Partner Matthew McNicholas represents victims in a range of areas, including personal injury, wrongful death, employment law, product liability, sexual assault and other consumer-oriented matters. Learn more about his professional background here.

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$1 Million Settlement Secured on Behalf of Motorcycle Accident Victim

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