Question 16

Blisters are an additional symptom of a patient with a partial-thickness burn.

Partial-thickness burns, also known as second-degree burns, often present with blisters as a typical symptom. These blisters form as a result of fluid accumulation between the layers of the skin, which is a common response to the injury.

A) Hives

Hives, or urticaria, are typically associated with allergic reactions and are characterized by raised, itchy welts on the skin. They are not a symptom of partial-thickness burns and do not relate to the injury mechanism involved in burns.

B) Pale skin

Pale skin can indicate reduced blood flow or other conditions, but it is not a characteristic symptom of partial-thickness burns. Instead, partial-thickness burns are marked by redness and swelling due to inflammation and increased blood flow to the affected area.

C) Charred skin

Charred skin is indicative of full-thickness burns (third-degree burns), which destroy both the epidermis and dermis layers. Since the question pertains to a partial-thickness burn, charred skin would not be present.

D) Blisters

Blisters are a hallmark of partial-thickness burns, occurring as a protective mechanism in response to the burn injury. The presence of blisters is an expected symptom, indicating damage to the dermis while still retaining some skin integrity.

Conclusion

Blisters are the definitive symptom associated with partial-thickness burns, arising from the body's response to injury. Other options either represent unrelated conditions or symptoms associated with more severe burn types, highlighting the specific nature of symptoms related to partial-thickness burns. Thus, blisters are the correct and relevant symptom for this type of injury.