Assessment Description Describe the three types of burns: thermal, chemical, and electrical. Explain the method to determine the percentage of body mass that has been burned. Describe a patient scenario with one type of burn and discuss the obstacles you may face in treating the patient. Support your summary and recommendations plan with a minimum of two APRN approved scholarly resources.

Introduction

Burns are a common type of injury that can have significant physical and psychological impacts on individuals. There are three main types of burns: thermal burns, chemical burns, and electrical burns. Each type of burn has its unique characteristics and treatment approaches. This paper will discuss the three types of burns, explain the method to determine the percentage of body mass that has been burned, and provide a patient scenario with one type of burn, highlighting the potential obstacles in treating the patient.

Types of Burns

1. Thermal Burns: Thermal burns occur due to exposure to extreme heat sources such as fire, hot liquids, steam, or hot surfaces. These burns disrupt the skin’s outermost layer and can progress to deeper layers if the exposure is prolonged or intense. Thermal burns can lead to pain, redness, swelling, blisters, and in severe cases, charring of the skin. The severity of a thermal burn is determined by the depth, extent, and location of the burn.

2. Chemical Burns: Chemical burns result from the contact of the skin or mucous membranes with corrosive substances such as acids, alkalis, or strong solvents. The severity of chemical burns depends on various factors like concentration, duration of contact, and the type of chemical involved. Chemical burns may not initially cause significant pain, but they can have profound tissue damage and may require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of chemical burns include redness, swelling, blisters, and possibly tissue necrosis.

3. Electrical Burns: Electrical burns occur when an electrical current passes through the body, causing tissue damage. The severity of electrical burns depends on the voltage, current, duration of exposure, and the pathway of the electrical flow through the body. Electrical burns can result in internal injuries, as the current can affect vital organs and tissues beyond the visible burn areas. Electrical burns may not initially appear severe on the skin’s surface, but internal damage can be extensive and life-threatening.

Percentage of Body Mass Burned

The Rule of Nines is commonly used to estimate the percentage of body mass burned in adults. According to this rule, the total body surface area (TBSA) is divided into regions that represent approximately 9% or multiples of 9% of the TBSA. The percentage assigned to each body region is as follows:

Head and Neck: 9%
Each Upper Extremity (Arm): 9%
Front and Back of the Torso: 18% each (36% total)
Each Lower Extremity (Leg): 18% each (36% total)
Perineum/Genitalia: 1%

This method provides an estimation of the TBSA burned and aids in determining the severity of the burn, assisting healthcare providers in planning appropriate management and treatment strategies. It is important to note that the Rule of Nines is generally applicable to adults and may not accurately estimate TBSA burned in children due to differences in body proportions.

Patient Scenario – Thermal Burn

A patient presented to the emergency department with a thermal burn on his right leg. The burn occurred when a boiling pot of water accidentally spilled onto his leg while cooking. Upon assessment, a second-degree burn covering approximately 10% of the TBSA was noted on the patient’s right leg. The burn appeared red, blistered, and painful to touch. The patient reported excessive pain and difficulty in bearing weight on the affected leg.