A six-year-old girl has partial thickness burns with vital signs showing BP 92/48, P 140, R 40. What should you do?

The scenario involves a six-year-old girl with partial thickness burns and vital signs indicative of potential shock, characterized by hypotension (low blood pressure) and tachycardia (high heart rate). In this context, the priority is to ensure adequate oxygenation and support the girl’s respiratory needs.

Administering oxygen via mask is the appropriate intervention in this situation. Children with significant burns are at risk for respiratory distress and inadequate oxygen saturation, especially if the burn involves any facial areas or if there are concerns about smoke inhalation. Providing supplemental oxygen helps to maintain adequate oxygen delivery to the tissues and supports the child’s vital functions as the body responds to the stress of injury.

Although monitoring vital signs and fluid resuscitation are essential components of the management of burn injuries—especially given the low blood pressure and high heart rate indicating potential shock—airway management and ensuring proper oxygenation are critical first steps in emergency care. Therefore, supplying oxygen is a fundamental action that should be prioritized immediately in the pre-hospital setting.

The other options, such as applying ice to the burns or preparing for emergency surgery, are not appropriate responses at this stage of care. Ice can cause further damage to the tissue and is not recommended for treating burns, while preparing for