Which of the following best describes a third-degree burn?

• A. A burn that affects only the epidermis, causing redness and pain
• B. A burn that damages both the epidermis and dermis, resulting in blisters and swelling
• C. A burn that destroys the epidermis, dermis, and underlying tissues, often resulting in numbness
• D. A burn that causes mild discomfort and slight swelling without damaging skin layers

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the classification of burns based on severity. Burns are categorized into first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree burns, each affecting different layers of the skin.
2. Step 2: Recall the anatomy of the skin. The skin consists of three main layers: the epidermis (outermost layer), the dermis (middle layer), and the hypodermis or subcutaneous tissue (innermost layer). Third-degree burns affect all three layers and may extend to underlying tissues such as muscles or bones.
3. Step 3: Review the symptoms of third-degree burns. These burns often result in numbness due to nerve damage, and the skin may appear charred, white, or leathery. Unlike first- and second-degree burns, third-degree burns do not cause pain in the affected area because the nerve endings are destroyed.
4. Step 4: Compare the descriptions provided in the question. Eliminate options that describe less severe burns, such as those affecting only the epidermis (first-degree) or both the epidermis and dermis (second-degree). Focus on the description that matches the characteristics of third-degree burns.
5. Step 5: Confirm that the correct answer is the description stating that third-degree burns destroy the epidermis, dermis, and underlying tissues, often resulting in numbness due to nerve damage.