Which condition is among the major burn criteria requiring emergency treatment?

Third-degree burns are classified as major burns that require emergency treatment due to the extensive damage they cause to the skin and underlying tissues. These burns affect all layers of the skin, including the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue, resulting in the loss of sensation in the burned area because the nerve endings are destroyed.

Patients with third-degree burns are at high risk for complications such as infection, fluid loss, and shock, which necessitates immediate medical intervention. The treatment often involves fluid resuscitation, pain management, and specialized wound care or surgical interventions, which might include skin grafting.

In contrast, first-degree burns typically affect only the outer layer of skin and cause pain and redness but usually do not require extensive medical treatment. Partial-thickness burns, while more severe than first-degree burns, generally do not encompass the full thickness of the skin and can sometimes be managed with outpatient care unless they cover large areas or occur in critical locations. Sunburns, primarily superficial burns caused by UV exposure, usually resolve on their own and do not necessitate emergency services unless they are extensive or involve more serious symptoms.