Burns covering greater than what percentage of Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) are considered life threatening?

Burns that cover greater than 20% of Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) are indeed considered life-threatening. This threshold is critical because such extensive burns can lead to severe complications, including significant fluid loss, infection, and systemic shock, all of which increase mortality risk.

When more than 20% of TBSA is burned, the body struggles to maintain homeostasis. The management of such burns typically requires advanced medical interventions, including fluid resuscitation, pain management, and possible surgical interventions like skin grafting. Additionally, as the percentage of TBSA affected increases, so does the risk of complications such as respiratory distress and multiple organ failure, which can be life-threatening.

Understanding the implications of TBSA percentages helps medical professionals prioritize care for burn victims and recognize when aggressive treatment is necessary. This knowledge is vital for those in emergency and trauma care settings, as well as for those preparing for the EFMB.