When treating partial thickness burns, what is a recommended action?

Cooling the superficial burns is a recommended action when treating partial thickness burns because it helps to reduce the temperature of the burned skin, alleviating pain and potentially minimizing further injury to the tissues. The cooling process should be done gently and ideally using cool (not cold) running water for a duration of 10 to 20 minutes. This action can also help to decrease inflammation and assist in the natural healing process.

On the other hand, breaking the blisters can lead to infection and prolong the healing time, as blisters serve as a natural barrier protecting the underlying skin from pathogens. Applying ice directly to the burn is not recommended, as this can further damage the skin by causing ice burns and a drop in temperature that may impede circulation. Administering oral medications may be appropriate in certain circumstances, but it does not address the immediate care of the burn and may not always be feasible if the patient is in pain or requires a more direct intervention. Therefore, cooling the superficial burns is the most effective and safest first step in managing partial thickness burns.