How do you treat a simple burn in a child?

To treat a simple burn in a child effectively, cooling the burn under running water and then covering it with a sterile dressing is the appropriate approach. This method helps to reduce the temperature of the burned area, which can alleviate pain and minimize the extent of tissue damage. Running cool (not ice-cold) water over the burn for at least 10 to 20 minutes encourages proper healing and relieves discomfort.

After cooling the burn, covering it with a sterile dressing protects the wound from infection, further injury, and contamination. This step is critical in ensuring that the healing process can proceed without complications.

Using ice directly on a burn can cause further tissue damage as the extreme cold can constrict blood vessels, leading to frostbite in the affected area. Tight bandaging can create pressure that may impede circulation, potentially worsening the injury. Similarly, applying ointments immediately might trap heat and cause irritation, thus delaying the healing process or increasing the risk of infection. The best practice involves cooling the burn and providing a sterile cover, as this approach supports optimal healing and protects the injured area.