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What immediate first aid should be given for burns?

  1. Hot compress

  2. Clean with an antiseptic

  3. Flush with cold water

  4. Cover tightly with bandage

The correct answer is: Flush with cold water

For treating burns, flushing the affected area with cold water is the most effective immediate first aid measure. This helps to cool the burn, reducing heat damage to the skin and underlying tissues, and can prevent the burn from worsening. Cold water also alleviates pain and reduces inflammation. It's crucial to do this as soon as possible after the burn occurs, ideally within 20 minutes, to maximize the benefits. Applying hot compresses or tightly bandaging the burn can increase the temperature of the injured area or restrict blood circulation, which can exacerbate the injury. Cleaning with an antiseptic might be necessary later once the burn is cooled and assessed, but it should not be the first action taken immediately after a burn occurs.