Which of the following is the second step in the partial thickness burn protocol?

• A. Cool water
• B. Remove jewelry and clothing from burn site, but not anything stuck to skin
• C. Cover burn loosely with sterile dressing
• D. Seek medical attention

Answer: (B)

In managing a partial-thickness burn, you first start cooling the burn with cool running water to limit tissue damage. The next action is to remove jewelry and clothing from the burn area to prevent constriction as swelling develops and to allow you to assess the burn more clearly. It’s important to skip removing anything that’s stuck to the skin, since pulling or tearing it can cause more injury. After that, you would loosely cover the area with a sterile dressing and seek medical attention as needed.