What is the recommended field treatment for burn injuries?

• A. Cool the burn with clean, cool water, cover with sterile dressing, avoid applying ointments, and seek evacuation.
• B. Apply ointment and cover with sterile dressing; do not evacuate.
• C. Use hot water to test depth, rub with alcohol, and apply lotion.
• D. Leave burn exposed and seek medical care later.

Answer: (A)

In field burn care, the priority is to limit tissue damage, reduce pain, prevent infection, and get the patient to higher care promptly. Cooling the burn with clean, cool running water helps stop ongoing heat damage and eases pain without causing additional injury. After cooling, covering the area with a sterile, non-adherent dressing protects the wound from contamination and friction, supporting a cleaner, more manageable field wound. In the field, avoid applying ointments or greasy substances because they can trap heat, complicate assessment, and increase infection risk. Do not use ice, hot water, rubbing alcohol, or lotions, as these can worsen tissue injury. Evacuation should be arranged when the burn is significant or when medical care beyond first aid is needed. This combination—cooling, sterile covering, no ointments, and timely evacuation—best aligns with proper field management.