**Core Concept**
Immediate care for burn patients involves preventing infection to minimize morbidity and mortality. This requires careful management of the burn wound to promote a clean environment and prevent bacterial colonization.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The initial method to prevent infection in burn patients is through the application of sterile, non-adherent dressings to the wound. This is crucial to protect the wound from bacterial invasion and promote a clean environment for healing. Non-adherent dressings, such as hydrocolloid dressings, are particularly effective as they do not stick to the wound, reducing the risk of further tissue damage and promoting a moist environment conducive to healing.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Topical antibiotics are not the initial method to prevent infection in burn patients, as they may not reach all areas of the wound and can contribute to antibiotic resistance. Furthermore, topical antibiotics can be toxic to the wound tissue.
**Option B:** Debridement is an important step in wound care, but it is not the initial method to prevent infection in burn patients. Debridement is typically performed after the wound has been cleaned and dressed to remove dead tissue and promote healing.
**Option C:** Wound closure is not the initial method to prevent infection in burn patients, as it is often not possible to close the wound immediately after a burn injury. Additionally, wound closure can increase the risk of infection if the wound is not properly cleaned and prepared.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Burn patients are at high risk of developing infections, particularly in the first 48 hours after injury. Early application of sterile, non-adherent dressings to the wound is critical to prevent infection and promote healing.

**Correct Answer: D. Non-adherent dressings.