Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

What is a common characteristic of a superficial partial-thickness burn?

1. Discoloration without blisters

2. Presence of blisters and extreme pain

3. Necrosis of the skin layers

4. Presence of eschar

The correct answer is: Presence of blisters and extreme pain

A superficial partial-thickness burn is characterized by damage that extends through the epidermis and into the upper part of the dermis. The presence of blisters is a hallmark feature of this type of burn, as it occurs due to the separation of the dermal layers caused by the accumulation of fluid. This fluid-filled space forms blisters, which can be sensitive and painful due to exposed nerve endings in the dermis. Pain is often described as being severe because of this exposure, as well as the inflammatory response that follows the injury. In contrast, other types of burns such as superficial burns may exhibit discoloration without blisters, while deeper partial-thickness burns could lead to necrosis of skin layers or the presence of eschar, which is a hardened, dead tissue often found in full-thickness burns. Thus, the defining characteristics of a superficial partial-thickness burn, particularly the presence of blisters and the extreme pain associated with it, help differentiate it from other burn classifications.