Which term best describes a third-degree burn?

A third-degree burn is best described as a full thickness burn because it involves complete damage to both the epidermis and dermis layers of the skin. In this type of burn, all the layers of skin are affected, and the underlying tissues may also be damaged. This results in a loss of skin function and sensation in the area due to the destruction of nerve endings.

Full thickness burns often appear white, waxy, or charred, and they do not blanch (turn white) when pressure is applied, indicating that the tissue is severely compromised. Unlike superficial burns, which only affect the outer layer of skin, and partial thickness burns, which involve deeper layers but still retain some skin integrity, third-degree burns require more extensive medical treatment, often including skin grafts. This significant damage sets full thickness burns apart from the other types listed.