Question

In a 5-year-old child, the burn area corresponding to the size of the palm is equal to:

• A. 1%
• B. 5%
• C. 10%
• D. 20%

Hint:

The patient's own palm with fingers approximates a fixed fraction of BSA.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Recall the palmar rule.
The patient's own palm (palm plus fingers) represents approximately 1% of the total body surface area. This rule is used to estimate the extent of small or scattered burns.

Step 2: Apply to a child.
The palmar method is proportional to the individual's own body size, so it holds true regardless of age, including a 5-year-old child. The child's palm equals roughly 1% of the child's own body surface area.

Step 3: Why not the Rule of Nines.
The Rule of Nines assigns 9% to body regions and must be modified for children (larger head, smaller legs), but the palmar 1% rule is unaffected by age.

Conclusion: The palm equals 1% body surface area, matching the printed key.