Question

A nurse in an ER is caring for a toddler who has partial-thickness burns on their right arm. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

(A) Apply a dry dressing to the burn.
(B) Apply a wet dressing to the burn.
(C) Immerse the burn in cool water.
(D) Administer pain medication as needed.

Answer 1

The nurse should immerse the burn in cool water, apply a wet dressing to the burn, and administer pain medication as needed.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should immerse the burn in cool water. This action helps to cool the burn and relieve pain. It is important to avoid using ice or very cold water, as this can cause further damage to the skin. Immersing the burn in cool water for about 10-15 minutes can help reduce swelling and promote healing.

Additionally, the nurse should also apply a wet dressing to the burn. This helps to keep the area moist and promote healing. The wet dressing can be made using sterile saline solution or a clean, damp cloth.

Administering pain medication as needed is also an important action to take. Burns can be extremely painful, especially partial-thickness burns. Pain medication can help the toddler feel more comfortable and minimize distress.