The rule of nines is a quick and easy method used by medical professionals to estimate the percentage of body surface area affected by burns. This method divides the body into sections, each representing a specific percentage of the total body surface area.
The rule of nines assigns the following percentages to different body areas:
- Head and neck: 9%
- Each arm (front and back): 9%
- Each leg (front and back): 18% (9% for the front and 9% for the back)
- Torso (front): 18%
- Torso (back): 18%
- Genitals: 1%
This method is helpful for quickly assessing the severity of a burn injury and determining the appropriate treatment plan. It is used to estimate the amount of fluid needed for resuscitation and to gauge the extent of the burn.
Example: If a person has burns on their head, both arms, and the front of their torso, the total body surface area affected would be 45%. (9% head + 9% arm + 9% arm + 18% torso = 45%).
Note: The rule of nines is a simplified method and may not be perfectly accurate, especially in children and people with different body proportions.
