> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://handbook.teddwa.xyz/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://handbook.teddwa.xyz/burns/burns-on-the-arms-legs-hands-and-feet.md).

# Burns on the arms, legs, hands, and feet

Cool the burn, preserve circulation, and protect function.

### Immediate actions

1. Complete the primary assessment (ABCs).
2. Stop the burning process and remove jewelry or tight items.
3. Cool the injury with cool running water for 20 minutes when practical.

{% hint style="danger" %}
Never apply ice to a burn. Ice can worsen tissue damage.
{% endhint %}

### Protect circulation

Check skin color, warmth, sensation, movement, and pulses beyond the burn. Reassess often, especially when a burn circles an arm, leg, finger, or toe.

Loosely cover the injury with a sterile burn dressing. Separate burned fingers or toes with sterile dressings if practical.

Do not wrap tightly. Do not remove clothing stuck to the skin.

### Escalate care

Urgently assess burns affecting hands, feet, major joints, or a limb circumference. Seek emergency care for numb, white, charred, or rapidly swelling tissue.

### Transport

Elevate the limb only if it does not increase pain and no fracture is suspected. Keep the patient warm and reassess circulation during transport.

For significant burns, establish IV or IO access and treat severe pain with fentanyl, morphine, or ketamine when appropriate.


---

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