In the case of full-thickness burns, how should dressings be applied once the fire is out?

For full-thickness burns, applying dry dressings is the preferred method once the fire is extinguished. This approach helps to protect the burn area from infection and further injury while also allowing for the natural healing process to begin. Dry dressings can help manage pain by minimizing exposure to air and reducing friction on sensitive, damaged skin.

In addition to providing a barrier against contaminants, dry dressings can absorb any exudate that may arise from the healing process, thus maintaining a cleaner environment for the burn. They also ensure that the skin can breathe, which is crucial for proper recovery without causing additional irritation.

While options like wet layered dressings or ointment-covered dressings might seem beneficial for moisture retention or pain relief, they can actually increase the risk of infection by creating a moist environment for bacteria to thrive. Loose cotton padding can offer some protection, but it does not sufficiently cover and support the full-thickness burn as effectively as dry dressings do. Therefore, the application of dry dressings is the most effective and appropriate choice in this situation.