Define a partial thickness burn.

• A. First-degree burn affecting only the outer skin layer
• B. Third-degree burn that destroys all skin layers
• C. Second-degree burn that damages the first two skin layers, which blister and feel very painful
• D. Minor burn with little pain

Answer: (C)

Partial-thickness burns reach through the epidermis and into part of the dermis, affecting the first two skin layers. This depth disrupts both skin layers but doesn’t destroy the entire thickness of the skin, so nerve endings in the dermis are exposed, which makes the area very painful and prone to blistering as fluid pools between damaged layers. Healing comes from regeneration in the remaining skin structures and tends to leave noticeable scarring unless managed carefully, depending on depth.

The described scenario fits this depth: a burn that damages the first two skin layers, with blistering and marked pain, which are hallmark features of partial-thickness burns. In contrast, a first-degree burn involves only the outer epidermis and is less painful and without blisters; a full-thickness burn destroys all skin layers; and a minor burn with little pain would not align with the depth and symptoms of a partial-thickness injury.