National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

What is the best predictor of altered sensation in a patient recovering from an upper extremity burn?

1. The percentage of the body surface affected

2. The extent of any hypertrophic scarring

3. The presence of a skin graft

4. The depth of the burn injury

The correct answer is: The depth of the burn injury

The depth of the burn injury is the best predictor of altered sensation in a patient recovering from an upper extremity burn because it directly impacts the integrity of nerve endings and sensory pathways. Burns are classified into various depths—such as superficial, partial-thickness, and full-thickness—and each type affects the skin layers and associated structures differently. A superficial burn may only involve the epidermis, preserving most sensory function, while deeper burns can damage nerve endings and disrupt normal sensation, leading to increased risks of numbness, tingling, or hypersensitivity in the affected area during the healing process. The depth of the burn is, therefore, crucial in understanding potential sensory deficits and guiding rehabilitation efforts to address these challenges. While factors like the percentage of body surface affected, extent of hypertrophic scarring, and presence of skin grafts can influence recovery and sensation to some degree, they do not have the same direct relationship with sensory nerve involvement as the depth of the burn injury does. Hence, depth serves as the primary factor in predicting altered sensory perception during the recovery phase.