Question

A worker at a construction site was working with cement and did not realize that the gloves he was wearing were too porous for the job. EMS was called when he removed his gloves and saw his fingers were graying-white with the skin peeling. His palms were red and had no skin. What type of burn is this?

-third degree
-a thermal burn
-second degree
-second and third degree

Answer 1

The construction worker's injury involves second and third-degree burns due to chemical exposure to cement, characterized by blistering, skin peeling, and color changes, requiring medical attention for proper healing.

Step-by-step explanation:

The injury described by the construction worker seems to be a chemical burn caused by prolonged contact with cement. According to the severity of burns, it sounds like the worker experienced both second and third-degree burns. Second-degree burns are indicated by the blistering of the skin and the damage to both the epidermis and a portion of the dermis, while third-degree burns fully extend into both the epidermis and dermis, destroying the tissue and affecting the nerve endings and sensory function.

This would align with the description of the skin peeling, areas of grayish-white and red coloration, and the destruction of the skin surface. Treatment for such burns includes medical attention, potentially including debridement or grafting, to facilitate healing and prevent infections.