American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

Which areas of the body, when burned, require special attention or transfer to a burn center?

1. Hands and back

2. Head and neck

3. Feet and upper legs

4. Hands, face, feet, genitals, or joints

The correct answer is: Hands, face, feet, genitals, or joints

Burns that involve the hands, face, feet, genitals, or joints are particularly concerning and require special attention or transfer to a burn center due to several critical factors. These areas contain vital structures, including nerves, blood vessels, and tendons, and their involvement can significantly affect function and aesthetics. For instance, burns on the hands can impair the ability to perform daily activities, while facial burns can lead to both functional issues and disfigurement, necessitating specialized care for both physical and psychological reasons. Additionally, burns to the feet and genitals can pose risks such as compromised mobility and infection. Joints are susceptible to scarring that can limit range of motion, making it imperative to seek specialized assessment and treatment early to minimize complications and ensure the best functional outcome. The criteria for transferring a patient to a burn center centers on preserving function and managing potential complications more effectively than in a standard emergency department. This understanding stresses the importance of recognizing specific burn locations that signal the need for expert evaluation and intervention, reinforcing the standard guidelines used in trauma and burn care.