NBCSN Nationally Certified School Nurse Practice Exam

What initial first aid step should be taken for treating burns?

1. Use ointment to soothe the area

2. Apply ice for several minutes

3. Run cool water over the burn

4. Cover the burn with a sterile dressing immediately

The correct answer is: Run cool water over the burn

Running cool water over a burn is the most effective initial first aid step because it helps to cool the injured area and remove heat from the skin, which can reduce the severity of the burn and alleviate pain. Cool water can limit the extent of tissue damage by lowering the temperature of the skin and surrounding tissues. It is important to use cool, not cold, water to avoid causing further injury to the skin. This method can also help to clean the area and decrease the risk of infection. Using ointment, applying ice, or covering with a sterile dressing are not advised as first steps for treating a burn. Ointments might trap heat and cause further irritation, while ice can lead to frostbite if applied directly to the skin. Covering the burn immediately might also prevent the necessary cooling from water, which is crucial in the early treatment of burns.