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Multiple Choice
How does the rule of nines assist in determining if a burn should be classified as critical?
A
It calculates the time required for burn healing based on patient age.
B
It measures the depth of the burn to determine if it is first, second, or third degree.
C
It estimates the percentage of body surface area affected by burns to assess severity.
D
It identifies the type of chemical involved in the burn injury.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the rule of nines: The rule of nines is a method used in medical practice to estimate the percentage of total body surface area (TBSA) affected by burns. It divides the body into regions, each representing approximately 9% (or multiples of 9%) of the TBSA.
Learn the significance of TBSA estimation: Determining the percentage of TBSA affected by burns is crucial for assessing the severity of the injury and deciding whether it should be classified as critical. Burns covering a large percentage of the body can lead to complications such as fluid loss, infection, and shock.
Apply the rule of nines to assess severity: For adults, the body is divided into regions such as the head and neck (9%), each arm (9%), each leg (18%), the front of the torso (18%), and the back of the torso (18%). Add the percentages of the affected areas to estimate the total TBSA burned.
Determine critical burn criteria: Burns are classified as critical if they meet certain criteria, such as covering more than 25% of TBSA for second-degree burns, more than 10% of TBSA for third-degree burns, or involving sensitive areas like the face, hands, feet, or genitals.
Use the TBSA estimation to guide treatment: Once the percentage of TBSA affected is calculated, healthcare providers can decide on the appropriate treatment plan, which may include fluid resuscitation, wound care, and hospitalization for severe cases.