Urgent Care Burn Treatment

Urgent Care Burn Treatment

Burn injuries can happen in an instant, whether from a kitchen accident, an unexpected spill, or exposure to the sun. While some burns can be treated at home, others require medical attention to prevent complications such as infection or prolonged pain.

At Pomona Valley Health Centers, we offer expert urgent care for burns, providing timely treatment to help your skin heal and minimize discomfort.

Our experienced team is here to assess and treat mild to moderate burns with compassionate care, ensuring you receive the support you need to recover safely.

What Are Burns?

Burns are injuries that damage the skin and underlying tissues. They can be caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, radiation, or friction.

The severity of a burn depends on how deep it penetrates the skin and the extent of the affected area. Some burns heal with basic care, while others require medical intervention to prevent complications such as infection or scarring.

The Most Common Causes of Burns

Burns can occur in a variety of ways. Recognizing potential sources of burns can help you take preventive measures to protect yourself and your family.

Some of the most common causes include:

• Thermal burns from fire, hot liquids, steam, or heated objects.
• Chemical burns from exposure to strong acids, alkalis, or other hazardous substances.
• Electrical burns caused by contact with electrical currents.
• Radiation burns from prolonged exposure to UV rays or radiation therapy.
• Friction burns resulting from skin scraping against rough surfaces.

Signs and Symptoms of Burns

Burn symptoms vary depending on the severity of the injury. Knowing what to look for can help determine whether you need urgent care.

Common symptoms include:

• Redness and swelling
• Blisters or peeling skin
• Pain or tenderness
• Charred or white skin in severe cases
• Numbness due to nerve damage

When to Go to Urgent Care for a Burn

While minor burns can often be treated at home, certain situations require medical attention.

Visit urgent care for a burn if:

• The burn covers an area larger than three inches in diameter.
• The burn affects sensitive areas such as the face, hands, feet, or genitals.
• There are signs of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, pus, or redness spreading from the burn site.
• You experience difficulty breathing due to the inhalation of smoke or fumes.
• The burn was caused by chemicals or electricity.

Types of Burns Treated at Urgent Care

Our urgent care team is equipped to treat a wide range of conditions, including first-degree and second-degree burns, helping to relieve discomfort and promote healing.

First-Degree Burns

These burns only affect the outermost skin layer (epidermis), causing redness and mild pain. With proper care, they typically heal within a few days.

Second-Degree Burns

These burns penetrate deeper into the skin, affecting the dermis and causing blisters, swelling, and intense pain. Treatment at urgent care can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.

           
How Urgent Care Treats Burns

At Pomona Valley Health Centers, we provide thorough assessments and effective treatment options to support healing and reduce the risk of infection.      

Initial Burn Assessment

Upon arrival, our medical team will evaluate the burn's severity, location, and potential complications to determine the best course of treatment.

Burn Treatment Options at Urgent Care

Depending on the severity, your treatment plan may include:

• Cooling the burn with sterile solutions.
• Cleaning the wound to reduce infection risk.
• Applying antibiotic ointments and topical medications.
• Offering and administering pain relief medications.

Wound Care and Pain Management

Proper wound care is essential for healing.

We may recommend:

• Applying non-stick dressings to protect the burn.
• Prescribing pain management strategies, including over-the-counter or prescription medications.
• Providing guidance on at-home care and recovery.

Topical Treatments and Dressings

To aid in healing, we apply specialized burn dressings and ointments tailored to the severity of the injury. These treatments help reduce pain, prevent infection, and support skin regeneration.

Preventing Burns and Minimizing Risks

Burn prevention starts with awareness and precautionary measures. Here are ways to reduce the risk of burns at home, work, and in daily activities.  

Household Safety Measures

Many burns occur in the home, especially in the kitchen and bathroom.

Reduce your risk by:

• Keeping hot liquids, appliances, and chemicals out of children's reach.
• Installing smoke detectors and checking them regularly.
• Using caution when cooking or handling hot objects.

Workplace Burn Prevention

Protecting yourself from burns in the workplace is essential, especially in environments with chemicals, heat, or electricity.

Follow these safety guidelines:

• Wear appropriate protective gear when working with hazardous materials.
• Adhere to workplace safety protocols for handling chemicals and heat sources.
• Ensure proper training on fire safety procedures.

Burn Prevention in Children

Children are especially vulnerable to burn injuries.

Protect them by:

• Keeping electrical outlets covered.
• Always storing matches and lighters out of reach.
• Testing bathwater temperature before use.

What to Do Before Visiting Urgent Care for Burns

Taking quick action after a burn injury can help minimize damage and support a faster recovery.

Before heading to urgent care, consider these steps:

• Cool the burn under lukewarm running water for 10-15 minutes to help reduce pain and prevent further tissue damage.
• Avoid applying ice, as extreme cold can worsen the injury.
• Cover the burn with a clean, non-stick bandage or cloth to protect it from contaminants.
• Do not pop blisters, as this increases the risk of infection.
• Take over-the-counter pain medication if needed, following dosage guidelines.

When to Visit the Emergency Room for a Burn

Certain burn injuries require emergency medical care rather than urgent care.

Seek emergency treatment if:

• The burn covers a large portion of the body.
• The burn is deep, with white, charred, or leathery skin.
• The burn is caused by an electrical shock or strong chemicals.
• You experience difficulty breathing due to inhaling smoke or toxic fumes.
• There are signs of severe infection, such as spreading redness, fever, or pus.
• The burn involves the face, hands, feet, or major joints, affecting mobility.

If the burn is severe, involves extensive areas of the body, or is accompanied by difficulty breathing, call 9-1-1 immediately for emergency assistance.

Visit Pomona Valley Health Centers Urgent Care for Burn Treatment

At Pomona Valley Health Centers, we understand burn injuries can be painful and concerning. Our urgent care team is here to provide prompt, compassionate treatment to help you heal quickly and comfortably.

With multiple locations in Southern California and a full range of services, expert care is always within reach.

If you or a loved one has sustained a burn that requires medical attention, don’t wait—contact us directly or visit one of our urgent care centers today.

When you need urgent care, you can reserve your visit online at any Pomona Valley Urgent Care center and shorten your wait time. Get the care you need faster.

Reserve Your Spot Now