If a pot of boiling water spills on a child’s chest, what is the immediate first-aid action?

• A. Immediately soak the chest (including clothing) with cool water
• B. Remove the clothing and apply butter
• C. Apply ice directly to the skin
• D. Cover with dry gauze and call for help

Answer: (A)

Cooling the burn with cool running water immediately is the most important first step. This quickly removes heat from the skin, helps limit tissue damage, and reduces pain, which is especially crucial in a child whose skin is more sensitive to injury. If possible, remove clothing around the chest so the water can reach the burn, but don’t pull away fabric that’s stuck to the skin. Let the cool water run over the area for about 10 to 20 minutes. After cooling, cover with a clean, nonstick dressing if available and monitor the child for signs that need medical attention. Do not apply butter or oil, which can trap heat and cause infection, and do not put ice on the burn, as it can cause further tissue damage. While calling for help is important if the burn is large or signs of serious injury appear, the immediate action is cooling the burn.