For thermal burns greater than 10% BSA, what is recommended?

For thermal burns greater than 10% BSA, what is recommended?

• A. Cool with water for 30 seconds
• B. Remove clothing from the burned area
• C. Cover with dry dressing and keep patient warm
• D. Apply ointment and bandage

Answer: (C)

When a thermal burn involves a large area, the priority is to protect the wound and prevent heat loss from the patient. Covering with a clean, dry dressing helps keep dirt and bacteria out and reduces ongoing pain from exposed tissue, while keeping the patient warm prevents hypothermia. Large burns disrupt the skin’s barrier and lead to fluid and heat loss, so insulation and a sterile cover help stabilize the patient before transport for definitive care. Ointments are avoided in the field because they can trap heat and complicate assessment, and prolonged cooling with water is not ideal for large burns due to hypothermia risk. Removing clothing is only appropriate if it can be done safely and without causing further injury, but the key in this scenario is to cover and keep the patient warm, then arrange rapid transport.

When a thermal burn involves a large area, the priority is to protect the wound and prevent heat loss from the patient. Covering with a clean, dry dressing helps keep dirt and bacteria out and reduces ongoing pain from exposed tissue, while keeping the patient warm prevents hypothermia. Large burns disrupt the skin’s barrier and lead to fluid and heat loss, so insulation and a sterile cover help stabilize the patient before transport for definitive care. Ointments are avoided in the field because they can trap heat and complicate assessment, and prolonged cooling with water is not ideal for large burns due to hypothermia risk. Removing clothing is only appropriate if it can be done safely and without causing further injury, but the key in this scenario is to cover and keep the patient warm, then arrange rapid transport.