Which of the following is the MOST appropriate initial management for a patient with widespread full-thickness burns?

• A. Dry, sterile dressings; warmth; and rapid transport.
• B. Dry; sterile dressings; burn ointment; and rapid transport.
• C. Moist; sterile dressings; warmth; and rapid transport.
• D. Moist; sterile dressings; burn ointment; and rapid transport.

Answer: (A)

In widespread full-thickness burns, the priority is to protect the wound, prevent further heat loss, and get the patient to specialized care quickly. Dry, sterile dressings provide a clean barrier without adding moisture that can increase heat loss or interfere with wound assessment. Keeping the patient warm helps prevent hypothermia, which is a major risk with large burns. Burn ointments and moist dressings can trap heat and contaminate or obscure the wound, making evaluation and transport planning more difficult. For these reasons, dry sterile dressings with warmth and rapid transport are the best initial management.