What is the appropriate treatment for a burn?

Cooling a burn under running water is the most effective initial treatment for managing burns. This method helps to reduce the temperature of the skin and alleviates pain. The cool water constricts blood vessels and can help limit the extent of tissue damage, particularly in the critical moments immediately following the injury. Covering the burn with a clean, non-stick dressing afterward helps to protect the area from infection and further injury.

In contrast, applying ointments or wrapping the burn tightly can trap heat and moisture, which may exacerbate the injury and increase the risk of infection. Keeping the area dry and clean is important, but it does not directly address the pain or the immediate damage caused by the burn. Additionally, using ice directly on a burn can cause ice burns and further damage to the tissue due to extreme cold. Therefore, the most appropriate and immediate treatment for burns is to cool the area with running water and cover it properly afterward.