A 24-year-old man was shocked while working on his house's electrical system. Assessment reveals a minor burn to the fingers on his left hand. Aside from being slightly shaky, the patient states he feels fine and does not see the need to be treated further or transported to the hospital. Which statement would you make before allowing him to refuse additional care and transport?

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) or EMTs typically provide the following first aid to burn patients at the scene of the injury: Remove heat sources Remove clothing that is burned, covered with chemicals, or constricting Cool the burn with water for up to 30 minutes Wrap the burn in a clean, dry cloth Assess the burn for swelling, color, pain, blisters, capillary refill, bleeding, and overall appearance Elevate burned areas if possible  Here are some other first aid steps for burn patients: Don't apply ice or ice-cold water Blot dry, gently Don't break blisters or remove... Show more

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) or EMTs typically provide the following first aid to burn patients at the scene of the injury:
Remove heat sources
Remove clothing that is burned, covered with chemicals, or constricting
Cool the burn with water for up to 30 minutes
Wrap the burn in a clean, dry cloth
Assess the burn for swelling, color, pain, blisters, capillary refill, bleeding, and overall appearance
Elevate burned areas if possible 

Here are some other first aid steps for burn patients:
Don't apply ice or ice-cold water
Blot dry, gently
Don't break blisters or remove tissue
Cover partial-thickness wounds with antibiotic ointment
Cleanse with mild soap and gentle scrubbing
Check tetanus status
Administer tetanus immunization 

In the emergency department, EMS may also: Resuscitate fluids, Place large-bore peripheral lines, Administer crystalloids, and Place venous catheters through burned skin.

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