When to Call EMS for Burns: A Critical Guide for School Nurses

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where every second counts? When it comes to dealing with burns, especially those covering a significant portion of the body like 10%, your response could make all the difference. As a school nurse, your ability to act decisively can save a life. So, what’s the first thing you should do? Let’s break it down.

Understanding the Severity of Burns

First off, it’s vital to understand that burns are categorized by their severity, and burns covering 10% of the body surface area fall into the moderate category. This might sound like a straightforward medical term, but what it really means is that the risks are serious. The likelihood of complications, including shock and infection, increases with larger burns. So, the classroom hero in you may think of offering minor first-aid treatment, but here’s the deal— calling EMS is your top priority.

Why Calling EMS is Essential

You might wonder, “Can’t I just apply a cold compress or ointment?” While these methods may seem convenient, they’re inadequate for moderate burns. Here’s a thought: imagine trying to fix a flat tire with a bandaid. You see the point, right? Burns covering substantial areas require professional medical evaluation and care beyond what staff can provide at the school. Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) are trained to handle these situations, ensuring that the student receives proper care — all while on their way to a medical facility.

What You Shouldn’t Do

Now, let’s clarify what not to do. Applying ointment without medical guidance is a no-go. It might seem like a nice thing to do, but it could exacerbate the burn or lead to infection. Similarly, waiting for symptoms to improve is simply unacceptable. That’s akin to waiting for a storm to pass out of sheer hope. You need to take action!

And let’s face it—minor relief measures such as applying a cold compress, while it might provide a smidgen of comfort, won’t cut it. They could fail to address the underlying seriousness of the injury, and time wasted can lead to severe outcomes that affect the student’s long-term health.

A Call to Action: Be Prepared

So, the next time you find yourself in such a high-stakes scenario, remember that time is of the essence. Calling EMS not only ensures swift medical attention but also allows you to keep your focus on the student's emotional well-being during a stressful time.

You know what? Preparation also matters—what if you have a list of emergency contacts at your fingertips? Or a detailed emergency response plan clearly visible in the nurse’s office? Practicing these response scenarios with your staff can prepare everyone for the unexpected.

Taking It Further

Understanding how to respond to severe burns not only aids in a student’s immediate care but also empowers you as a school nurse. Every decision you make can resonate beyond the moment. You’re there to advocate for your students' health and well-being.

In conclusion, while it may seem tempting to rely on simpler first aid methods, always remember: when the stakes are high, calling EMS is the best, and often the only, appropriate action. Your decisive action could save a life. What’s more rewarding than that?