1. What is the Rule of Nines for Burns?

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

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard Rule of Nines percentages:

Where:

• Head = 9% of TBSA
• Each Arm = 9% of TBSA
• Each Leg = 18% of TBSA
• Front Torso = 18% of TBSA
• Back Torso = 18% of TBSA
• Genitals = 1% of TBSA

Explanation: The calculator sums the percentages of affected areas to determine total burn surface area.

3. Importance of TBSA Calculation

Details: Accurate TBSA estimation is critical for determining fluid requirements, prognosis, and treatment plans for burn patients.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the percentage of each body region affected by burns. The calculator automatically sums the total affected area.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's considered a major burn?
A: Typically burns covering >20% TBSA in adults or >10% in children, or burns affecting critical areas.

Q2: How does this differ for children?
A: Children have proportionally larger heads (up to 18%) and smaller legs; use pediatric Rule of Nines for accurate assessment.

Q3: What about partial thickness burns?
A: Only include areas with 2nd or 3rd degree burns; 1st degree (superficial) burns shouldn't be counted in TBSA.

Q4: How is this used for fluid resuscitation?
A: The Parkland formula uses TBSA to calculate fluid requirements (4ml × TBSA% × kg body weight).

Q5: What if burns are scattered?
A: Use the "palm method" - patient's palm (including fingers) represents ~1% of TBSA for scattered burns.