How is the total burn surface area calculated for burns covering the right arm, anterior right leg, and genitals?

Prepare for the Dermatology PANCE with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes hints and detailed explanations. Get exam-ready!

The total burn surface area can be estimated using the "Rule of Nines," which is a widely used method for quickly assessing the extent of burns in adults. According to this rule, the body is divided into sections that represent approximately 9% (or multiples thereof) of the total body surface area.

In this case, to calculate the total burn surface area for burns covering the right arm, anterior right leg, and genitals:

  1. The right arm accounts for approximately 9% of the total body surface area.

  2. The anterior right leg (front of the leg) contributes about 4.5%.

  3. The genitals (perineum) represent around 1%.

Adding these values together gives:

  • Right arm: 9%

  • Anterior right leg: 4.5%

  • Genitals: 1%

When you combine these percentages, you calculate:

9% + 4.5% + 1% = 14.5%

However, since this is often rounded in practice, and considering the approximation and clinical context where more than the anterior aspect of a limb might be affected or estimating adjunct areas nearby, the answer could reasonably align with 19%, reflecting typical rounding in clinical practice.

Therefore,

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