What characterizes a second-degree burn?

What characterizes a second-degree burn?

• A. Thermal damage to epidermis and dermis; blistering; moist skin
• B. Damage limited to epidermis; no blistering
• C. All three layers damaged; leathery skin
• D. Blisters appear; may be red or white; skin may appear moist

Answer: (D)

Second-degree burns are partial-thickness injuries that involve the epidermis and part of the dermis. This depth leads to fluid collecting between the layers, forming blisters. The skin often looks red or white and is moist from the blister fluid and oozing. The pain is usually intense because nerve endings in the damaged dermis are exposed. The presence of blisters along with a moist, red or white appearance is the hallmark of a second-degree burn, distinguishing it from superficial burns that don’t blister and deeper burns that produce leathery, dry skin.

Second-degree burns are partial-thickness injuries that involve the epidermis and part of the dermis. This depth leads to fluid collecting between the layers, forming blisters. The skin often looks red or white and is moist from the blister fluid and oozing. The pain is usually intense because nerve endings in the damaged dermis are exposed. The presence of blisters along with a moist, red or white appearance is the hallmark of a second-degree burn, distinguishing it from superficial burns that don’t blister and deeper burns that produce leathery, dry skin.