If a burn that covers about two inches on a patient's hand is painful, red, and swollen, but there are no blisters, treat the wound as a:

• A. First-degree burn.
• B. Second-degree burn.
• C. Third-degree burn.
• D. Fourth-degree burn.

Answer: (B)

Painful, red, and swollen with a burn about two inches on the hand points to tissue damage that goes beyond the outer skin layer but does not extend through all layers. That depth is characteristic of a partial-thickness burn, commonly known as a second-degree burn. Blistering is typical for second-degree burns, but its absence doesn’t rule out this depth—some partial-thickness injuries may blister later or might not blister in every person or every situation. In contrast, third-degree burns would usually feel numb or have a dry, leathery look due to nerve and tissue destruction, and fourth-degree burns involve deeper structures like muscle or bone, which isn’t indicated here. Given the size and location on the hand, this should be treated as a more substantial burn requiring more careful care and evaluation. Cool the area with running water for about 10 minutes, avoid ice, loosely cover with a clean dressing, and monitor for signs of infection or worsening pain. Seek medical care if there are increasing symptoms, concern for the depth, or if the burn covers a significant portion of the hand.