Full-thickness burns are best described as which of the following?

• A. Charred or white, leathery skin
• B. Blistering skin with severe pain
• C. Red, warm, dry skin
• D. Superficial reddening with mild pain

Answer: (A)

Full-thickness burns involve destruction of both the epidermis and dermis (often extending into deeper tissues). The burned skin is typically charred or white and has a leathery texture due to eschar, reflecting the complete loss of viable skin. Because the nerve endings are destroyed, the burned area can be painless, even though surrounding tissue may be very tender. This contrasts with less severe burns: second-degree burns blister and are usually very painful because nerves are exposed, while first-degree or superficial partial-thickness burns are red, painful, and dry without the leathery eschar. Thus, the description of charred or white, leathery skin best fits full-thickness burns.