Which action is NOT appropriate for a minor burn?

Which action is NOT appropriate for a minor burn?

• A. Notify nurse and follow first aid procedures.
• B. Apply cold running water to cool the burn.
• C. Put butter on the burn.
• D. Cover with a clean dressing.

Answer: (C)

Proper first aid for minor burns centers on cooling the burn, protecting the skin, and following the established procedure. Cooling with cool running water helps reduce heat in the tissue and pain; it should be done promptly for several minutes. After cooling, protect the area with a clean dressing to prevent contamination and help prevent infection, and follow school or clinical protocol by notifying a nurse or supervising adult so the burn can be assessed and documented. Butter, or other greasy home remedies, is not appropriate because it can trap heat in the tissue, promote skin breakdown, and increase infection risk, which can delay healing and complicate treatment. The combination of cooling, dressing, and proper reporting aligns with safe, effective burn care.

Proper first aid for minor burns centers on cooling the burn, protecting the skin, and following the established procedure. Cooling with cool running water helps reduce heat in the tissue and pain; it should be done promptly for several minutes. After cooling, protect the area with a clean dressing to prevent contamination and help prevent infection, and follow school or clinical protocol by notifying a nurse or supervising adult so the burn can be assessed and documented. Butter, or other greasy home remedies, is not appropriate because it can trap heat in the tissue, promote skin breakdown, and increase infection risk, which can delay healing and complicate treatment. The combination of cooling, dressing, and proper reporting aligns with safe, effective burn care.