What is an example of low survivability wounds?

• A. Third-degree burns > 70% TBSA
• B. First-degree burns > 50% TBSA
• C. Second-degree burns 30% TBSA
• D. Superficial burns < 5% TBSA

Answer: (A)

In burns, survivability depends on both how deep the burn is and how much of the body is affected. Third-degree burns are full-thickness injuries that destroy the skin’s protective barriers and damage underlying tissues, leading to massive fluid loss, infection risk, and impaired thermoregulation. When these deep burns cover a very large area—more than about 70% of the total body surface area—the body's compensatory mechanisms are overwhelmed, making survival unlikely in austere or prehospital settings. That combination of depth and extensive extent is what makes this scenario a classic example of low survivability wounds.

By contrast, superficial (first-degree) or small to moderate burns, even if they cover a sizable area, typically have much better outcomes, and large but partial-thickness (second-degree) burns, while serious, are more survivable with appropriate care. Burns under 5% TBSA are generally minor and highly survivable.