1. What is the Rule of Nines Burn Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the percentage of total body surface area (TBSA) affected by burns using the Rule of Nines method.

Purpose: It helps medical professionals and first responders quickly assess burn severity for treatment and fluid resuscitation decisions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Rule of Nines formula:

Body Regions and Percentages:

• Head and neck: 9%
• Each arm: 9% (including hand)
• Each leg: 18% (including foot)
• Front torso: 18%
• Back torso: 18%
• Genitals: 1%

3. Importance of Burn Percentage Calculation

Clinical Significance: The %TBSA burned is crucial for determining fluid resuscitation needs (Parkland formula), prognosis, and treatment decisions.

4. Using the Calculator

Instructions: Check all body regions affected by burns. The calculator will sum the percentages automatically.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What about pediatric patients?
A: Children have different proportions (larger head, smaller legs). Use the Lund-Browder chart for accurate pediatric assessment.

Q2: How do partial thickness burns factor in?
A: Only include areas with 2nd degree (partial thickness) or deeper burns. 1st degree (superficial) burns are not included.

Q3: What if a burn covers only part of a region?
A: For smaller burns, use the patient's palm (including fingers) as approximately 1% of TBSA to estimate.

Q4: Why is %TBSA important for burn patients?
A: It helps determine fluid resuscitation needs (4ml × %TBSA × kg body weight in first 24 hours) and guides transfer to burn centers.

Q5: What's considered a major burn?
A: Typically burns >20% TBSA in adults or >10% in children, or burns involving sensitive areas (face, hands, feet, genitals).