Which type of burn is characterized by the skin being red, swollen, and painful?

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

Answer: (A)

The type of burn characterized by the skin being red, swollen, and painful is a first-degree burn. This type involves only the outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. When someone suffers a first-degree burn, the affected area typically appears red and may be swollen and tender to the touch. These burns usually heal on their own within a few days without the need for specialized medical treatment, and symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and topical applications.

In contrast, second-degree burns penetrate deeper into the skin, affecting both the epidermis and the underlying layer known as the dermis. These burns can cause blistering and more intense pain. Third-degree burns are more severe, damaging both layers of the skin and potentially affecting underlying tissues, resulting in a lack of pain sensation in the burned area due to nerve damage. Fourth-degree burns are the most severe, extending through the skin to the underlying fat, muscle, or bone, and typically require extensive medical intervention.