Why should you cover burns with a clean or sterile dressing?

Covering burns with a clean or sterile dressing is essential primarily to prevent infection. When the skin is burned, it creates an open wound that can easily become contaminated with bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. By applying a clean or sterile dressing, you provide a barrier that helps protect the burn from dirt, debris, and pathogens, which can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

Infections can lead to complications that hinder healing and may result in more serious issues, like sepsis or the need for surgical intervention. Therefore, keeping the burn covered properly is a critical aspect of first aid and continued care for burns.

While there are other considerations, such as reducing pain and assisting with the healing process, the immediate concern in wound care is to safeguard against infections. This is especially true for burns, which can be particularly susceptible to infection due to the damage to the skin's protective barrier.