Which statement accurately describes second-degree burns?

• A. They involve immediate blistering and have a moist appearance
• B. They are painless due to nerve destruction
• C. They involve full-thickness skin
• D. They do not require dressing

Answer: (A)

Second-degree burns are partial-thickness injuries that involve the epidermis and part of the dermis. They typically present with immediate blistering and a moist, shiny appearance because the epidermis has separated and fluid collects under it. These burns are usually very painful since nerve endings in the dermis remain exposed. In contrast, full-thickness burns destroy all skin layers and often feel numb due to nerve damage, so the statement about full-thickness skin doesn’t fit. And burns are generally dressed to protect the blister and prevent infection, so saying they do not require dressing isn’t accurate. Therefore, the description of immediate blistering with a moist appearance best matches second-degree burns.