North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

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Prepare for the North Carolina EMT State Exam with interactive quizzes and comprehensive explanations. Master your skills and gain confidence by reviewing key topics before test day!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

What is the first action to take in the treatment of burns?

Apply ointment immediately
Stop the burning process
Immerse in ice water
Cover with a wet cloth

The correct answer is: Stop the burning process

In the treatment of burns, the first and most crucial action is to stop the burning process. This means removing the source of the burn injury, which can include moving the patient away from the source of heat or flames and ensuring that any clothing or items that are on fire are extinguished or removed. Addressing this immediately helps to prevent further injury and minimizes tissue damage. Once the burning process has been halted, other steps can follow, such as cooling the burn with water (not ice water), covering it appropriately, and seeking medical assistance if necessary. Applying ointment immediately or covering the burn with a wet cloth are important steps but should only be taken after the burning process has been stopped. Immersing the burn in ice water is discouraged as it can lead to further skin damage and complications. Therefore, prioritizing the cessation of the burning process is essential in burn management.