Which of the following is NOT a sign of full thickness burns?

Full thickness burns, also known as third-degree burns, are characterized by significant damage to all layers of the skin, including the epidermis, dermis, and underlying tissues. The correct answer pertains to the signs that are consistent with full thickness burns.

Red or pink skin discoloration is indicative of first-degree or superficial partial-thickness burns, where only the outer layer of skin is affected. These types of burns typically result in pain and inflammation but do not penetrate deeply enough to cause the extensive tissue damage seen in full thickness burns.

In contrast, full thickness burns are identified by several key characteristics: the presence of charred skin indicates severe burning that has destroyed tissue, decreased or absent pain occurs because nerve endings in the skin are often destroyed, and blistering may be observed in partial thickness burns but not typically in deeper burns, as the skin is more likely to be dry and leathery without blisters.

Understanding these characteristics helps paramedics and healthcare providers to assess burn injuries accurately and apply the proper treatment protocols.