Final answer:
A third-degree burn is not the most painful as it damages nerve endings, leading to loss of sensation, but it is severe and can be very damaging, requiring immediate medical attention.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that a third-degree burn is both the most painful and most damaging destruction of the skin is false. While a third-degree burn fully extends into the epidermis and dermis, destroying the skin tissue, it actually damages the nerve endings which result in a loss of sensory function. Therefore, these burns are not as painful as one might expect. By contrast, a fourth-degree burn is the most severe, affecting not only all skin layers but also underlying muscle and bone. With severe burns like third and fourth-degree burns, the nerve endings may be so damaged that the pain is not as intense as that of more superficial burns. However, it is critical to note that third and fourth-degree burns cause serious damage and require immediate medical attention, including procedures such as excision (debridement) or grafting to promote healing.