What is the priority in treating a casualty with severe burns?

In the case of a casualty with severe burns, establishing an airway and supporting breathing is of utmost priority due to the potential for airway compromise. Severe burns can lead to respiratory distress through direct thermal injury to the airway or through inhalation of smoke and toxic fumes, which can cause swelling and obstruction. If a patient's airway is not properly maintained, they may lose the ability to breathe effectively, leading to hypoxia and rapid deterioration of their condition.

Once the airway is secured and adequate breathing is supported, other factors can then be managed. For instance, while cooling the burn area is critical to minimizing heat damage and preventing further injury, it is secondary to ensuring that the patient can breathe. Additionally, wound cleaning and antibiotic administration are important components of burn care, but they can only be effectively performed once the airway is secure and the casualty is stable enough for further treatment.

Overall, the body's immediate need for oxygen and adequate ventilation must be prioritized before attending to other specific burn-related issues. Therefore, ensuring the casualty has a clear airway is vital in improving their chances of survival and recovery.