What is the recommended initial treatment for a small burn?

• A. Cool the burn with running cool water for several minutes and cover with a clean, nonstick dressing
• B. Apply butter
• C. Break any blisters
• D. Use hydrogen peroxide

Answer: (A)

The best initial step is to remove heat from the skin as quickly and gently as possible and then protect the damaged area. Cooling with running cool water for several minutes draws heat away from the burn, reducing tissue damage, pain, and swelling. It’s important to use cool water rather than ice, because ice can cause further tissue injury.

After the area has been cooled, covering it with a clean, nonstick dressing helps prevent infection and protects the burnt skin during the healing process. Nonstick dressings prevent the wound from sticking when you change it, which reduces pain and tissue disruption.

Avoid applying butter to a burn because it can trap heat, introduce bacteria, and complicate cleaning. Do not break any blisters; intact blisters act as a natural barrier to infection and breaking them increases the risk of contamination and slower healing. Hydrogen peroxide is not ideal for initial burn care because it can irritate or damage exposed tissue and may slow healing.

If the burn is larger than a few inches, or affects the face, hands, feet, joints, or genitals, or if there are signs of infection or severe pain, seek prompt medical attention.