Which steps correctly describe treating a burn in the field?

• A. Stop burning process
• B. Irrigate with room temperature water; apply non-adherent dressing
• C. Stop burning process only
• D. Apply alcohol and bandage

Answer: (B)

In-field burn care aims to limit tissue damage by quickly removing heat and protecting the wound. The best approach is to run cool, room-temperature water over the burn to dissipate heat without causing further tissue injury, followed by covering the area with a clean, non-adherent dressing. This combination reduces pain, minimizes deeper tissue damage, and lowers infection risk by keeping the wound clean without sticking to it. Stopping the burning process alone leaves heat in the tissue and isn’t sufficient. Using alcohol can irritate or damage burned tissue and doesn’t aid cooling or protection, and simply applying a bandage without proper cooling and a non-adherent cover is not adequate care.