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For a school-age child with a minor superficial burn from fireworks, which nursing action is appropriate?

  1. Administer the tetanus toxoid vaccine if it's been more than 1 year since the last dose.

  2. Apply an antimicrobial ointment to the affected area.

  3. Leave the burn area open to air.

  4. Place an ice pack on the affected area.

The correct answer is: Apply an antimicrobial ointment to the affected area.

Applying an antimicrobial ointment to the affected area is an appropriate nursing action for a school-age child with a minor superficial burn. This type of burn, which typically affects only the outer layer of the skin, can lead to pain and potential infection. Using an antimicrobial ointment helps to protect the burn site from bacteria, promotes healing, and can reduce pain and discomfort. In the scenario of a superficial burn, proper wound care is essential. The intention behind applying this type of ointment is to create a barrier that keeps out pathogens while also maintaining moisture in the healing tissue, which is important for optimal recovery. The use of an appropriate topical treatment, in this case, supports the natural healing process and minimizes the risk of complications. While other choices may seem reasonable in certain contexts, they do not align with the best practice for managing a minor superficial burn.