Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

What factor has the greatest impact on determining the severity of a burn?

1. Location of the burn

2. Extent and depth of the burn

3. Cause of the burn

4. Age of the patient

The correct answer is: Extent and depth of the burn

The severity of a burn is primarily determined by the extent and depth of the burn, as these factors directly influence the damage to skin and underlying tissues. The extent is measured by the total body surface area (TBSA) affected, while depth refers to how deep the burn penetrates the layers of skin. Burns are classified into different degrees (first, second, and third) based on their depth, which has significant implications for treatment and recovery. Burns that are deeper affect not only the epidermis but also the dermis and may involve underlying tissues. Deeper burns can disrupt blood supply and nerve function, leading to more severe complications, such as infection, scarring, and potential loss of function. The extent of the burn can also inform decisions about fluid resuscitation and whether specialized care, such as transfer to a burn center, is necessary. While other factors such as the location of the burn, the cause of the burn, and the age of the patient can influence the overall management and potential complications, they do not have the same direct impact on the burn's initial severity as the extent and depth of the burn do. For instance, burns to the face or hands may be more concerning due to potential functional outcomes, and children or elderly