What should you do immediately after treating a burn?

After treating a burn, it is essential to cover the burn with a sterile dressing. This helps protect the burn area from infection and further injury. A sterile covering can prevent contaminants from entering the wound and can also help retain moisture, which is vital for the healing process.

Using a sterile dressing keeps the burn clean and provides a barrier against bacteria that could lead to complications. It also serves to reduce pain by minimizing exposure to air. The dressing should ideally be non-adherent and breathable to allow for proper healing while still providing protection.

The other options do not offer the same level of safety or efficacy in promoting healing. For instance, applying ice directly can further damage the tissue and exacerbate the injury. Exposing the burn to air could increase the risk of infection and may lead to increased pain. Likewise, using substances like butter is not advisable, as these can trap heat and bacteria against the burn, hindering the healing process.