Third-Degree (Full Thickness) Burns

Nutrition for Special Groups 3(3+0)

Lesson 35 : Burns

Third-Degree (Full Thickness) Burns

Third-degree burns destroy the epidermis and dermis. Third-degree burns may also damage the underlying bones, muscles, and tendons. The burn site appears white or charred. There is no sensation in the area since the nerve endings are destroyed.
Second and third-degree burns require the immediate attention of a physician or other healthcare provider. Listed below you will find additional information relating to first-, second-, or third-degree burns.

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Causes
In most cases, third-degree burns are caused by the following:

  • a scalding liquid
  • skin that comes in contact with a hot object for an extended period of time
  • flames from a fire
  • an electrical source
  • a chemical source

Symptoms
The following are the most common symptoms of a third-degree burn. However, each child/person may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

  • dry and leathery skin
  • black, white, brown, or yellow skin
  • swelling
  • lack of pain because nerve endings have been destroyed

Large third-degree burns heal slowly and poorly without medical attention. Because the epidermis and hair follicles are destroyed, new skin will not grow.

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Last modified: Wednesday, 9 May 2012, 8:08 AM