Emergency Triage Practice Exam

In the context of a chemical explosion, the determination of which victims should be transported to a burn center is critical for proper treatment and management of injuries. The correct answer highlights the importance of considering both the type and extent of injuries as well as the nature of the burns.

Victims with chemical burns are particularly vulnerable because chemical agents can continue to cause damage as long as they remain on the skin or in contact with body tissues. Chemical burns can also have systemic effects, potentially leading to serious complications. The presence of burns on both arms indicates that a significant surface area is affected, which warrants specialized assessment and treatment at a burn center equipped to manage such injuries appropriately.

Furthermore, the consideration of the extent of burns is crucial. Burns classified as third-degree, like those affecting the legs, require immediate medical attention, but the priority for transportation might be influenced by other factors such as the potential for airway compromise or the nature of the chemicals involved. Victims experiencing respiratory distress would also require urgent evaluation, especially in the context of a chemical explosion, but the question specifically asks about the type of burns that necessitate transport to a burn center.

First-degree burns are generally less severe and can often be treated with outpatient care rather than requiring specialized burn unit resources. Therefore