What treatment could be applied for a first-degree burn?

For a first-degree burn, applying cool or tepid water is an appropriate treatment. It helps to soothe the affected area and reduce discomfort by lowering the skin temperature. This action can also help prevent further skin damage and alleviate pain. Most first-degree burns are relatively minor, affecting only the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis), so immediate and gentle cooling is highly effective.

Using ice-cold water is not advisable, as extreme cold can cause additional damage to the skin. Similarly, topical antibiotics and burn ointments are typically reserved for more severe burns or for preventing infection if there is an open wound. Surgical intervention is not required for first-degree burns since they usually heal on their own within a few days without the need for invasive procedures. Therefore, the focus for treating a first-degree burn is on cooling the burn area, which aligns with the correct choice.