Classification of Burns

Characteristics of a superficial burn? (1st degree burn)

- Pink- red - painful - only affects the epidermis (example: sunburn)

Characteristics of a superficial partial thickness burn? (deeper 1st degree burn)

- are painful -usually appear blistered, weepy, and are pale-redish pink -only affects the epidermis Example: Severe sunburn

Deep partial thickness burn characteristics? (2nd degree burn)

- large, thick-walled blisters - edema and weeping, - cherry-red, exposed dermis. - painful and sensitive to cold air. - affects epidermis and dermis Think damage to nerve endings, hair folicles, and sweat glands

How are burns classified?

-Partial thickness or full thickness -Size and depth -Extent ( % of burn on body surface)

What is the Lund and Brower method?

-calculates body %o f burn into smaller segments -used when age is a factor and body proportions vary (such as an infant)

What does a Full-thickness burn involve ? (3rd degree and 4th degree burns )

3rd degree: the epidermis, dermis, and underlying tissues, including fat 4th degree: muscle, and bone.

Review chart this chart:

A= 1st degree B= Second degree ( partial thickness) C=Third degree (full thickness) D= Fourth Degree ( effecting muscle and bone)

What is the rule of nines?

Head= 4.5% Arm (each) = 4.5% Torso= %18 Genitles= %1 Leg (each)= %9

Burn size is estimated using what methods?

Rule of nines Lund and Browder method

Appearance of a Full-thickness Burn?

dry, feel leathery, and may be red, white, brown, or black. The burned tissue usually lacks sensation.