What is the first step in managing a burn injury?

The correct action to take first when managing a burn injury is to remove the source of the burn and cool the burn area with running water. This step is crucial because it addresses immediate factors contributing to the injury—eliminating the source prevents further damage and cooling the burn helps reduce pain and minimize tissue damage. Cooling the area can slow down the burning process and alleviate discomfort caused by heat.

Immediate cooling with running water is particularly effective because it lowers the temperature of the burned tissue, reducing the extent of the injury and preventing complications. This practice is supported by emergency response guidelines, which emphasize the importance of promptly addressing both the injury and the ongoing harmful effects of heat.

While applying ointments, covering the burn, or checking for signs of shock are important elements of managing a burn injury, they should occur only after ensuring that the burn source is removed and the affected area is cooled. Addressing the immediate effects of the burn takes priority, which is why this step is deemed the first and most critical in burn management.