What is the first step a client with a mild sunburn should take?

The first step a client with a mild sunburn should take is to cool the skin with cool towels. This immediate action helps to soothe the affected area by reducing inflammation and alleviating discomfort. Cooling the skin can help constrict blood vessels, which may reduce redness and swelling, and it also works to lower the skin temperature to alleviate the burning sensation. Utilizing cool towels is a simple yet effective method for providing relief soon after sunburn occurs.

Applying lotion or moisturizer can be beneficial later on for hydration, but it is not the first step, as the priority should be to cool the skin. Staying out of the sun is an essential consideration for the future to prevent further damage, but it does not address the comfort and immediate care needed right after experiencing a mild sunburn.