Because of the damage to the epidermis, or outer layer of skin, a carpet burn is considered a form of first-degree burn. A carpet burn is due to the friction from skin rubbing up against the rough fibers of a carpet. These types of burns are most common in children who may experience spills and bumps on a carpeted surface. Carpet burns are very treatable, but it's important to treat them as quickly as possible to prevent skin infections.
Assess the Area
Once a carpet burn has occurred, examine the area for any broken areas of skin or bleeding (which should be very light, as only small blood vessels are typically disturbed by a carpet burn). If more significant bleeding is occurring, press a sterile gauze pad to the area until the bleeding slows. If you do not have access to gauze pads, you can substitute paper towels.
If a burning sensation accompanies the injury, it may be necessary to place the affected area under cool (not ice-cold) running water to alleviate burning sensations in the body. Do this for about 10 minutes in order to calm the nerve endings that may have been damaged due to the injury.
Clean the Area
The carpet burn may contain fibers rubbed off from the carpet in addition to any bleeding that has occurred. After washing your hands, clean the area with soap and water, making sure that no fibers or other foreign matter remain.
Cover the Wound
In order to prevent further rubbing and damaging the wound, cover the affected area with a non-stick dressing. Manufacturers make these specifically for burns, while any non-stick pad will work as well. Do not dress the wound too tightly, as this may prevent air from circulating well around the wound and enhancing wound healing. The bandage need only stay on for about 24 hours.
After this time, a crust-like/scabbed area may form over the carpet burn. Resist the urge to pick at the area. Because the scabs can be itchy, covering the sore for the duration may help.
Identifying Infection
Any time the skin is broken on a wound, the germs may seep in and cause infection. Carefully observe the wound for the following factors:
• a wound that does not show signs of healing after two days
• swelling and inflammation around the wound
• pus that seeps out of the wound
• fever due to no other known cause
• a red streak extending from the wound
If you observe any of these symptoms, seek medical attention for the wound.
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