Estimating the Size of a Burn

You can quickly estimate the size of a burn by using the “rule of nines.” This method divides the body’s surface area into percentages. Estimating burn size in adults See a picture of the “rule of nines” for adults . The front and back of the head and neck equal 9% of the body’s surface area. The front and back of each…

Estimating the Size of a Burn

Topic Overview

You can quickly estimate the size of a burn by using the “rule of nines.” This method divides the body’s surface area into percentages.

Estimating burn size in adults

See a picture of the “rule of nines” for adults.

  • The front and back of the head and neck equal 9% of the body’s surface area.
  • The front and back of each arm and hand equal 9% of the body’s surface area.
  • The chest equals 9% and the stomach equals 9% of the body’s surface area.
  • The upper back equals 9% and the lower back equals 9% of the body’s surface area.
  • The front and back of each leg and foot equal 18% of the body’s surface area.
  • The groin area equals 1% of the body’s surface area.

Estimating burn size in babies and young children

See a picture of the “rule of nines” for babies and young children.

  • The front and back of the head and neck are 21% of the body’s surface area.
  • The front and back of each arm and hand are 10% of the body’s surface area.
  • The chest and stomach are 13% of the body’s surface area.
  • The back is 13% of the body’s surface area.
  • The buttocks are 5% of the body’s surface area.
  • The front and back of each leg and foot are 13.5% of the body’s surface area.
  • The groin area is 1% of the body’s surface area.

The “rule of palm” is another way to estimate the size of a burn. The palm of the person who is burned (not fingers or wrist area) is about 1% of the body. Use the person’s palm to measure the body surface area burned.

It can be hard to estimate the size of a burn. If you think a burn is a certain size but you are unsure, it is best to discuss the size of the burn with your doctor.

Related Information

Credits

Current as ofJune 26, 2019

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP – Emergency Medicine
Adam Husney, MD – Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD – Family Medicine
H. Michael O’Connor, MD, MMEd, FRCPC – Emergency Medicine
Martin J. Gabica, MD – Family Medicine

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