When treating a second degree burn, what should be avoided unless advised by a healthcare provider?

When treating a second degree burn, what should be avoided unless advised by a healthcare provider?

• A. Running cool water over the burn
• B. Applying ointments
• C. Covering the burn with a sterile bandage
• D. Using ice directly on the burn

Answer: (D)

Using ice directly on a second-degree burn is discouraged unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider, as this can cause additional damage to the skin. Ice can constrict blood flow and lead to more severe tissue injury or frostbite, particularly in a sensitive area that is already inflamed and vulnerable. In contrast, running cool water over the burn is generally recommended to help cool the area and relieve pain. Applying ointments may not be appropriate due to the risk of trapping heat and bacteria, which could lead to infection. While covering the burn with a sterile bandage is an important step in protecting it from infection and further injury, the application of ice does not facilitate healing in the case of burns and is therefore not advisable.

Using ice directly on a second-degree burn is discouraged unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider, as this can cause additional damage to the skin. Ice can constrict blood flow and lead to more severe tissue injury or frostbite, particularly in a sensitive area that is already inflamed and vulnerable.

In contrast, running cool water over the burn is generally recommended to help cool the area and relieve pain. Applying ointments may not be appropriate due to the risk of trapping heat and bacteria, which could lead to infection. While covering the burn with a sterile bandage is an important step in protecting it from infection and further injury, the application of ice does not facilitate healing in the case of burns and is therefore not advisable.