You may be enduring some of the most painful procedures you can imagine as you recover in the hospital from your burn injuries. The images of the fire or accident that resulted in your burns replay in your mind, and you may have little else to do but lie there and think about it because the process for healing your skin may seem long and tedious.
After surgeries, skin grafts, cleansing and frequent re-dressing, you may be counting the minutes until you can get out of the hospital and home to your family. If your California doctors have not yet discussed your continued treatment of your burn wounds after your release, this is a topic you may want to bring up since it may take some preparation and planning.
Continuing your recovery at home
When you get home, you will probably follow a routine of self-care that your doctors prescribe to keep your wounds clean and promote healing. Infection is the most dangerous risk you will face, so it is critical that you remain alert for redness or swelling at the injury, increased pain or signs of fever. Contacting your doctor immediately is wise to begin treatment to stop the infection from spreading. Other methods of promoting recovery include the following:
- Continuing stretches and physical therapy to prevent scars from limiting your mobility
- Keeping your prescribed garments clean and wearing them as directed
- Getting plenty of rest and remaining hydrated
- Using unscented lotions or oils to keep your skin soft and pliable
- Wearing sunscreen to protect your skin when outdoors
- Eating a well-balanced diet with vitamin rich foods to keep your body healthy
- Caring for the donor site, which is a place on your body where doctors may have removed healthy skin to cover the burned area
- Seeking professional help for any other issues you may recognize
When someone suffers burns, the injuries go deeper than the skin. It is common for burn victims to have additional medical issues, such as organ damage or smoke inhalation, but you may also experience mental health issues like depression or anxiety. This may happen with any injury that leaves disfiguring scars. In addition to taking care of your body, you will want to seek appropriate assistance from any available resource, including exploring your legal options for pursuing compensation from those whose actions resulted in your injuries.
