Which step is NOT part of outpatient management for less severe burns?

Which step is NOT part of outpatient management for less severe burns?

• A. Cool areas
• B. Cleanse wound
• C. Debride larger or ruptured blisters
• D. Expose to sun

Answer: (D)

For minor burns treated as an outpatient, the focus is on reducing tissue damage and infection while promoting healing. Cooling the affected area with cool running water helps limit injury and relieves pain. Cleaning the wound with mild soap and water lowers infection risk. If there are large or ruptured blisters, careful debridement of nonviable tissue in a clinical setting can help prevent infection and prepare the wound for healing. After wound care, use a sterile, nonadherent dressing and provide appropriate analgesia; make sure tetanus is up to date. Importantly, protecting the burn from sun exposure is advised. UV light can worsen pigment changes and delay healing, so exposing the wound to sun is not part of outpatient burn management.

For minor burns treated as an outpatient, the focus is on reducing tissue damage and infection while promoting healing. Cooling the affected area with cool running water helps limit injury and relieves pain. Cleaning the wound with mild soap and water lowers infection risk. If there are large or ruptured blisters, careful debridement of nonviable tissue in a clinical setting can help prevent infection and prepare the wound for healing. After wound care, use a sterile, nonadherent dressing and provide appropriate analgesia; make sure tetanus is up to date.

Importantly, protecting the burn from sun exposure is advised. UV light can worsen pigment changes and delay healing, so exposing the wound to sun is not part of outpatient burn management.