Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

According to the "Rule of Nines," what percentage of BSA does a 60-year-old male's burns account for if his anterior chest, head, and both anterior arms were burned?

1. 24%

2. 36%

3. 48%

4. 50%

The correct answer is: 36%

In assessing burn injuries, the "Rule of Nines" is a quick way to estimate the total body surface area (BSA) affected by burns. Each major area of the body is assigned a percentage of the total body surface area, with the following general percentages used for adults: - The head accounts for 9% of the BSA. - Each arm (anterior portion) accounts for 4.5% of the BSA, so both anterior arms together would be 9%. - The anterior chest accounts for 18% of the BSA. To calculate the total percentage of BSA burned for the specific areas mentioned: 1. The head contributes 9%. 2. The anterior chest contributes 18%. 3. The anterior portion of both arms contributes an additional 9%. By adding these percentages together, you obtain: 9% (head) + 18% (anterior chest) + 9% (both anterior arms) = 36%. Thus, the total percentage of BSA affected by burns in this scenario is 36%, making the choice that reflects this calculation the correct answer. This method of using the "Rule of Nines" allows EMTs and other medical professionals to efficiently evaluate the severity of