1. What is the Rule of Nines?

Definition: The Rule of Nines is a method used to estimate the total body surface area (TBSA) affected by burns in adults.

Purpose: It helps medical professionals quickly assess burn severity and determine appropriate treatment.

2. How Does the Rule of Nines Work?

The body is divided into regions, each representing approximately 9% (or multiples of 9%) of the total body surface area:

Body Region Percentages:

• Head and neck — 9%
• Each arm (including hand) — 9%
• Each leg (including foot) — 18%
• Front of torso — 18%
• Back of torso — 18%
• Genital area — 1%

3. Importance of Burn Percentage Calculation

Clinical Significance:

• Burns >20% TBSA often require IV fluid resuscitation
• Burns >40% TBSA have significantly increased mortality risk
• Helps determine need for transfer to burn center

4. Using the Calculator

Instructions:

1. Check all body regions affected by burns
2. Enter percentage of each region that has partial thickness burns
3. Click Calculate to get total burn percentage

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does this work for children?
A: No, children have different body proportions. Use the Lund-Browder chart for pediatric patients.

Q2: What about deep partial thickness or full thickness burns?
A: The calculator estimates surface area affected. Burn depth assessment is separate but equally important.

Q3: How accurate is the Rule of Nines?
A: It provides a quick estimate. For more precision, use the Lund-Browder method or palm method (patient's palm = ~1% TBSA).

Q4: What if burns cover only part of a body region?
A: Use the partial percentage field to adjust for partial burns in selected regions.

Q5: When should I seek emergency care for burns?
A: Immediately for burns >10% TBSA, burns on face/hands/feet/genitals, or any full thickness burns.