What is the appropriate treatment for a partial-thickness (second-degree) burn?

For a partial-thickness (second-degree) burn, covering the area with a sterile dressing while avoiding the breaking of blisters is the most appropriate treatment. This approach helps protect the burn from infection, which is a critical risk for second-degree burns where the skin is damaged but some layers remain intact.

Keeping the blisters intact is vital because they serve as a natural barrier to protect the underlying tissue and help in the healing process. If blisters are broken, it can expose the wound to bacteria and increase the likelihood of infection, complicating recovery.

Covering the burn with a sterile dressing provides additional protection, minimizing movement and friction that could aggravate the burn further. It also helps retain moisture, which is important for the healing of the skin.

Options involving cold water alone or soaking the area in harmful substances like alcohol are inappropriate because they could further damage the skin and delay healing. Removing clothing might be necessary if it is burned, but care must be taken to ensure that you do not cause additional trauma. Applying a bandage tightly might cut off circulation, which is dangerous for healing, especially in cases of swelling.

Therefore, the proper management of a partial-thickness burn focuses on protection and allowing the body’s natural healing processes to occur unh