If a burn is serious, what should be done after running cold water over it?

Severe burns can lead to serious complications, including infections and long-term damage, so seeking medical attention after initially cooling the area with cold water is critical. Cooling the burn helps to reduce temperature and limit damage to the tissue, but for serious burns, professional medical evaluation and treatment are necessary. Medical personnel can assess the severity of the burn, provide appropriate interventions such as pain management, wound care, and prevent complications like infection.

While applying a bandage might be needed in some cases, without proper medical evaluation, it could cause further issues, especially if the burn is severe. Simply running water until pain subsides may not be sufficient for serious burns, as they require thorough assessment. Using ointments immediately can cause irritation or prevent proper healing if applied improperly, making medical advice essential.