California Barber Written ExamSkin Care ServicesMedium
A barber is assessing a client's skin after a prolonged period of sun exposure. The skin appears reddened, slightly swollen, and tender to the touch, but without blistering. The client reports mild pain and itching. Which degree of burn is the barber most likely observing?
- AFourth-degree burn
- BSecond-degree burn
- CThird-degree burn
- DFirst-degree burn
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. First-degree burn
A first-degree burn affects only the outermost layer of skin (epidermis), causing redness, mild swelling, pain, and tenderness, but no blistering. This description perfectly matches the client's symptoms after sun exposure.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Fourth-degree burns extend through the skin into muscle and bone, which is extremely severe and not consistent with the client's condition.
- B. Second-degree burns involve blistering, significant pain, and damage to both the epidermis and dermis, which is not described here.
- C. Third-degree burns involve full-thickness skin damage, appearing white or charred, with nerve damage, which is far more severe than described.
First-Degree Burn
A minor burn affecting only the epidermis (outermost layer of skin), characterized by redness, mild swelling, pain, and tenderness, but no blistering.
- Commonly caused by sunburn or brief contact with hot objects.
- Heals within a few days without scarring.
- Can be treated with cool compresses and aloe vera.
Memory trick: First = Foremost Redness.