A patient with burns sustained in an explosion presents with moisture on the skin and blisters. What type of burn does this indicate?

The presentation of moisture on the skin and the presence of blisters indicates a second-degree burn. Second-degree burns, also known as partial-thickness burns, affect both the epidermis and the dermis, leading to symptoms such as redness, swelling, pain, and the formation of blisters filled with fluid. The moisture observed on the skin is a result of fluid leakage from damaged blood vessels in the dermis, which contributes to the blister formation.

First-degree burns, while painful and reddened, do not typically produce blisters and are confined to the epidermis. Third-degree burns extend through the epidermis and dermis and may damage deeper tissues, resulting in a dry, leathery appearance without moisture or blisters. Fourth-degree burns are more severe, extending through all layers of the skin and potentially into underlying structures like muscle and bone, presenting a charred or blackened appearance, and are not characterized by moisture or blisters on the surface.