Can California Urgent Care Centers Help if I Have Been Burned?

Burns can be complicated and painful injuries especially if they are not properly treated. The type of treatment you will need will depend on the type of burn sustained. Here is a short list of burn types and how to identify them.

Burn Degree Classifications

There are four classifications of burn degree. The deepness and severity of the burn’s penetration determines the burn’s classification.

• First-degree burns. These burns are usually minor and superficial. They involve the outer layer of skin (epidermis). This type of burn is usually dry, red and painful. Normally there are no blisters with this class of burn.
• Second-degree burns. These burns involve the epidermis and the dermis (the next layer of skin). In addition to being red, swollen and painful, there may be blistering with these burns.
• Third-degree burns. These go down to the deepest layer of skin, the subcutaneous tissue. Burns this severe destroy the epidermis and dermis. These wounds often appear white or blackened as though covered in char.
• Fourth-degree burns. These burns go through all the layers of skin tissue down to the dipper tissues such as muscle and bone. There is often nerve damage with these wounds so there is often no feeling in the burned area.

What Should I Do if I Sustain a Burn?

Our medical team is ready to handle minor burns such as first and second degrees. We can also handle some third-degree burns smaller than two inches. If you have sustained a third-degree burn larger than two inches, or you have sustained a fourth-degree burn, please dial 9-1-1 and visit the emergency room.

For lesser burns, please visit one of our conveniently located urgent care centers in:

• Lodi: (209) 267-2750
• Stockton (Pershing Ave)(209) 263-4090 
• Stockton (Lorraine Ave) (209) 885-7081
• Manteca: (209) 255-4762

What to Do After a First or Second-Degree Burn Before Going to Urgent Care

Before going to urgent care for a first or second-degree burn in Stockton, it's important to provide immediate first aid to the affected area. Here's what to do:

• Cool the Burn: Hold the burned area under cool (not cold) running water for about 10-15 minutes. This helps to reduce the heat and minimize damage to the skin.
• Remove Tight Items: If the burn is on an area where clothing or jewelry is constricting, gently remove these items to prevent further irritation if swelling occurs.
• Cover with a Clean Cloth: Gently cover the burn with a clean, non-stick cloth or sterile gauze to protect it from dirt and germs.
• Don't Pop Blisters: If blisters form, leave them intact. Popping them can increase the risk of infection.
• Avoid Home Remedies: While you're waiting to go to urgent care, avoid applying ice, butter, oils, or any home remedies to the burn. These can worsen the injury.
• Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If you're experiencing pain, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as burns can lead to fluid loss.
• Keep the Area Elevated: If possible, elevate the burned area to help reduce swelling.
• Avoid Irritating Substances: Until you receive medical attention, avoid using creams, ointments, or adhesive bandages on the burn.
• Seek Medical Attention: If the burn is larger than a few inches, on the face, hands, feet, or genitals, or if it appears infected (redness, swelling, pus), seek medical attention at urgent care or an emergency room.

Remember, while providing immediate first aid is important, it's crucial to seek professional medical evaluation and treatment for burns, especially if they are severe or cover a large area. 

California Urgent Care Center can provide the appropriate burn medical care for first and second degree burns. More severe third and fourth degree burns should be treated in an emergency room. 

Contact us at (209) 224-8517 if you or someone you know needs burn treatment in Stockton or surrounding areas. We can help.