What is the proper care for a burn?

The proper care for a burn involves covering it with a dry sterile dressing. This approach serves multiple important purposes. First, covering the burn protects it from environmental elements, reducing the risk of infection and further irritation. A dry sterile dressing also provides a barrier to help keep the burn clean and protected from friction or pressure that could exacerbate pain or injury.

Covering a burn is crucial for healing, as it prevents exposure to bacteria and helps maintain a moist environment, which is beneficial for the healing process. Additionally, using a sterile dressing minimizes the risk of contamination, ensuring that any protective measures taken do not introduce new pathogens to the wound.

While ointments may be beneficial for certain types of burns after initial treatment, applying them immediately can trap heat and worsen the injury, making it a less advisable choice in the initial management of burns. Absorbent cotton can leave fibers in the wound and isn't sterile, which could lead to infection. Leaving the burn uncovered is not recommended because it exposes the injury to contamination and increases the risk for infection. Therefore, covering it correctly with a dry sterile dressing is the best practice for immediate care of a burn.