In a project I'm working on, the protagonist suffers 2nd degree facial burns, a mild concussion and various minor scrapes and cuts. I'm wondering what treatment would look like after the first ~24 hours, what sort of drugs would likely be administered, and how he'd be feeling/acting if he decided to start running around.
Probably antibiotics and pain meds, maybe a salve. So probably anywhere from fine to impaired depending on how strong the pain meds are, and what kind they are prescribed.
Treatment in the hospital would probably look something like this: 2nd degree facial burn -Airways and vitals are checked, breathing tube and oxygen if needed -Might be given IV fluids to keep them hydrated (body fluids can be lost through skin that has been burnt) -Circulation and vital signs monitored in an effort to prevent shock -Medical team may "debride" the area - removing dead skin tissue, infection, or foreign materials/debris from the burn (this can involve surgically removing burned skin, aiding the body to break it down dead skin whether by natural process or medications, or applying a wet bandage and removing it when it is dry. -Area is kept clean and protected as much as possible whether by bandages/dressing -Antibiotic ointment like Bacitracin, Polysporin, Sulfadiazine Silver -Other antibiotics such as broad spectrum antibiotics like Chloramphenicol. Penicillin, Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, Methicillin sodium salt may be used. -Anti-inflammatory medications (Tylenol, Ibuprofen, etc.) to keep the pain down. If it's severe, stronger medications may be used (opiods) like Morphine. -Any itching may be remedied by antihistamines -If the patient is hysterical or anxious in some way, they may be given benzodiazepines. -If a fungal infection develops, they may be given an antifungal like Nystatin or Fluconazole -The patient may also need more to eat, a higher protein diet, or vitamins to aid with healing This link may help with more about antibiotics for burns: https://iliveok.com/health/treatment-burns-antibiotics-when-and-how-take_123314i15828.html A mild concussion -A wrapped ice pack on the head -Anti-inflammatory medications for pain -Examination of the skull to determine severity of damage -Any cuts are treated -Rest, rest, and more rest Minor Scrapes and Cuts -Washed, sanitized, bandaged -Bandages are cleaned and changed -Topical or oral antibiotics may be given to prevent infection I would think he would be feeling pretty crummy. Because of the burns, he may feel dehydrated or parched. Other signs of dehydration would probably be evident like dry skin and lips or his heart working harder. He would probably feel tired, especially with that concussion, and have pain (body aches, skin pain, burning, headaches) that needs to be constantly treated. I'm not sure why he would be gettng up and running around, at that point he probably wouldn't be able to think about getting out of bed. Because of the concussion or where he was burned on his face, his eye movement may not be normal. He might be nauseated or be throwing up from time to time. It's incredibly possible that he could have trouble walking due to the concussion. I hope this helps. Keep in mind I am not a doctor, I just read a lot. It's best to verify any research with your own. Good luck with your project!
