Rule of Palms: The surface of the patient's palm is approximately what percent of total body surface area?

Rule of Palms: The surface of the patient's palm is approximately what percent of total body surface area?

• A. 0.5%
• B. 1%
• C. 2%
• D. 5%

Answer: (B)

The main idea is using the patient’s own palm as a quick reference to estimate burn size. The surface area of the palm, including the fingers, is about 1% of the total body surface area. So a burn that covers the size of the palm roughly equals 1% TBSA. This simple rule helps clinicians make fast, first-pass decisions about resuscitation and care in the field when precise measurements aren’t feasible. Larger or smaller estimates aren’t as practical for immediate management: 1% is the established quick approximation. For more accuracy on larger burns or when precise planning is needed, formal charts like Lund and Browder are used.

The main idea is using the patient’s own palm as a quick reference to estimate burn size. The surface area of the palm, including the fingers, is about 1% of the total body surface area. So a burn that covers the size of the palm roughly equals 1% TBSA. This simple rule helps clinicians make fast, first-pass decisions about resuscitation and care in the field when precise measurements aren’t feasible. Larger or smaller estimates aren’t as practical for immediate management: 1% is the established quick approximation. For more accuracy on larger burns or when precise planning is needed, formal charts like Lund and Browder are used.