Recognising Burn Depths
Epidermal Burn
•
•
•
Superficial Dermal Burn


Deep Dermal Burn
•
•
•
•
•
Blisters present or
denuded
Pink, brisk capillary refill
Should heal within 7-14
days with minimal
dressing requirements

Skin intact, red, brisk
capillary refill
Erythema not included
in % TBSA assessment
Heal spontaneously
within 3-7 days with
moisturiser or
protective dressing
Mid Dermal Burn
•
•
•
Heterogeneous, variable
depths
Dark pink, sluggish capillary
refill
Should heal within 14 -21
days
Deeper areas or over a joint
may need surgical
intervention and referral
Full Thickness Burn
Heterogeneous, variable
depths
Blotchy red/white Sluggish
to absent capillary refill
Surgical intervention
Refer to specialist unit
•
•
•
•
•
Outer skin, and some underlying tissue dead
White, brown, red, black
No capillary refill
Surgical intervention and long-term scar management
required
Refer to specialist unit
For transfer criteria to a Severe Burn Unit and further information see NSW Burn Transfer Guidelines
http://www.aci.health.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/162634/Burns_Transfer_Guidelines_2013-14_-_web.pdf
Contacts for NSW Burn Units:
CHW
9845 1114
[email protected]
RNSH
9463 2111
[email protected]
CRGH
9767 7776
[email protected]
ACI Statewide Burn Injury Service Website
http://www.aci.health.nsw.gov.au/networks/burn-injury