Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

In a burn assessment using the Rule of Nines, how is the patient's body surface area and burn depth classified?

1. TBSA of 15% with full-thickness burns of the left arm

2. TBSA of 20% with partial-thickness burns on the left arm

3. TBSA of 10% with superficial burns on the anterior chest

4. TBSA of 18% with full-thickness burns of the left arm

The correct answer is: TBSA of 18% with full-thickness burns of the left arm

The correct choice is significant because it accurately identifies both the total body surface area (TBSA) affected by the burns and the depth of the burns. The Rule of Nines is a widely accepted method used to quickly and effectively estimate the percentage of the body surface area that has been burned in adults. In adults, divisions of the body can be assessed to determine how much area each section represents in percentage. A TBSA of 18% indicates that a significant portion of the body is involved, which can categorize the burn as a major burn requiring more intensive medical intervention. The mention of full-thickness burns specifically highlights that the burn has extended through the epidermis, dermis, and possibly deeper tissues, which is crucial in guiding treatment and intervention strategies since full-thickness burns often require surgical management or skin grafting. While the other options provide varying percentages and descriptions of burn depth, they do not align as accurately with the classifications according to the Rule of Nines or the implications of the burn depth. Understanding these classifications is vital for proper triage and treatment protocols in burn management.