What condition may lead to increased edema in a patient with chemical burns?

In the context of managing chemical burns, maintaining proper limb positioning is crucial to minimize complications such as edema. When burned limbs are positioned lower than the heart, gravity contributes to increased fluid accumulation in those areas, leading to worsened edema. This happens because blood and interstitial fluid can pool in the affected limbs due to gravitational forces, especially when the body is already trying to respond to injury and inflammation.

In contrast, elevating the burned limbs is a common practice to promote venous return and reduce swelling. Cold compresses can help alleviate pain and may contribute to some initial swelling reduction but are not primarily aimed at managing edema. Applying topical antibiotics is essential for preventing infection but does not directly influence edema management. Hence, lowering burned limbs below the heart significantly increases the risk of edema, making it the correct answer in this scenario.