What distinguishes a first-degree burn?

A first-degree burn is characterized by damage that is limited to the epidermis, which is the outermost layer of skin. This type of burn typically results from minor thermal injuries, such as brief contact with hot surfaces or sunburn. Symptoms often include redness, minor swelling, and pain, but there is usually no blistering or significant skin damage.

The other options describe conditions associated with more severe types of burns. For instance, a burn affecting the entire thickness of the skin indicates a third-degree burn, which involves deeper layers of skin and can damage nerves and other structures. Blistering is a feature of second-degree burns, where the injury extends into the dermis, leading to fluid accumulation under the skin. Lastly, burns that penetrate into subcutaneous tissues are also indicative of third-degree burns, which can cause extensive damage beyond just the surface. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for proper identification and treatment of burns.