What is a sign of a 2nd degree burn?

A second-degree burn is characterized by damage to both the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and part of the underlying layer (dermis). The most common signs of a second-degree burn include redness, swelling, and the presence of blisters. The blistering is particularly indicative of this type of burn, as it results from the separation of skin layers due to the burn's severity. The skin may be very painful to the touch, and the redness indicates increased blood flow to the area as part of the body's inflammatory response.

In contrast, the other choices represent signs associated with different types of burns or skin conditions. For example, charred and numb skin would typically be seen in a third-degree burn, where the injury extends through all layers of the skin and may destroy nerve endings, leading to a lack of sensation. Dry and flaky skin might suggest a less severe burn, such as a first-degree burn or other skin conditions, while marked swelling is more general and can occur with various injuries but is not specific to the classification of burns. Understanding these characteristics helps in assessing the severity of burns and determining the appropriate course of treatment.