Which statement about the rule of nines is correct?

Which statement about the rule of nines is correct?

• A. The posterior of a child's leg is equal to 13.5% of the body surface area.
• B. The anterior arm in the adult is equal to 9% of the total body surface area.
• C. The anterior trunk of an adult is equal to 18% of the body surface area.
• D. A child's head is equal to 14% of his or her total body surface area.

Answer: (C)

The statement regarding the anterior trunk of an adult being equal to 18% of the body surface area is accurate according to the rule of nines, a method used to estimate the total body surface area (TBSA) affected by burns. This rule assigns specific percentages to different body parts, making it easier for healthcare providers to assess burn severity and guide treatment decisions. In adults, the anterior trunk covers 18% of the total body surface area. This percentage is vital for determining fluid resuscitation needs and understanding the extent of burn injuries. The rule of nines is particularly useful in emergency settings, as it provides a quick reference for assessing burn injuries and planning the necessary medical interventions. The other statements inaccurately represent the percentages for the respective body parts. For example, the posterior of a child's leg is actually 9% rather than 13.5%, and the anterior arm in adults is correctly represented as 4.5%, not 9%. Additionally, a child's head accounts for approximately 18% of total body surface area, not 14%. Understanding these percentages and their applications is crucial for EMTs and other healthcare professionals when managing burn patients.

The statement regarding the anterior trunk of an adult being equal to 18% of the body surface area is accurate according to the rule of nines, a method used to estimate the total body surface area (TBSA) affected by burns. This rule assigns specific percentages to different body parts, making it easier for healthcare providers to assess burn severity and guide treatment decisions.

In adults, the anterior trunk covers 18% of the total body surface area. This percentage is vital for determining fluid resuscitation needs and understanding the extent of burn injuries. The rule of nines is particularly useful in emergency settings, as it provides a quick reference for assessing burn injuries and planning the necessary medical interventions.

The other statements inaccurately represent the percentages for the respective body parts. For example, the posterior of a child's leg is actually 9% rather than 13.5%, and the anterior arm in adults is correctly represented as 4.5%, not 9%. Additionally, a child's head accounts for approximately 18% of total body surface area, not 14%. Understanding these percentages and their applications is crucial for EMTs and other healthcare professionals when managing burn patients.