What percentage of burns is involved using the rule of nines if both front legs are burned?

Prepare for the Dunphy Primary Care Exam 3. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations, to ensure success. Maximize your study efficiency and excel in your exam!

Using the rule of nines, the assessment of burn size is simplified by dividing the body into sections that represent 9% or multiples of 9% of the total body surface area (TBSA). In adults, each leg represents 18% of the body surface area, with 9% allocated to the front of each leg and 9% to the back.

When both front legs are burned, the calculation entails considering only the frontal aspect of both legs, which totals to 18% (9% for the front of one leg and 9% for the front of the other leg). This is a standardized methodology in burn assessment to quickly gauge the severity and extent of burns, which is vital for treatment decisions and fluid resuscitation calculations.

Therefore, stating that 18% of the body surface is involved when both front legs are burned aligns perfectly with the rule of nines, making this the correct answer. Understanding this rule is crucial for ensuring appropriate care and intervention in burn cases.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy