Is a third-degree burn wet or dry?

Prepare for the Mark Klimek Blue Book Part 1 Exam. Study with multiple choice questions, flashcards, and comprehensive explanations. Get ready for your nursing exam!

A third-degree burn is characterized by damage that extends through the full thickness of the skin. This type of burn can destroy both the epidermis and dermis, affecting the underlying tissues as well. The skin typically appears dry and leathery due to the extensive loss of fluids and proteins in the area of injury. Additionally, since the nerve endings may be destroyed in this level of burn, the affected area can be numb, giving it a distinct appearance that is less likely to be described as "wet" or "moist."

In this context, while other types of burns may present with blistering or oozing fluids, third-degree burns tend to lack moisture and features such as crusting or excessive weeping. Therefore, the primary characteristic of a third-degree burn being dry is essential in understanding its classification and treatment.

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