Which of the following is NOT a criterion for transfer to a Burn Care Center?

• A. Second-degree burns >10% BSA
• B. Any third-degree burns
• C. Electrical burns including lightning injury
• D. Minor sunburn on arm

Answer: (D)

Burn center transfers are guided by injuries that overwhelm basic care and require specialized evaluation or treatment. Large or deep burns, especially when they threaten significant fluid loss, infection risk, or need for surgical intervention, push providers toward a burn center. Second-degree burns covering more than about 10% of body surface area fall into that higher-risk category because they carry greater complications and can require advanced wound care and monitoring. Any third-degree burn is full-thickness tissue loss and typically needs specialist assessment for potential grafting and extensive care. Electrical burns, including lightning injuries, can cause hidden deep tissue damage and cardiac or systemic issues, so they warrant burn center evaluation even if the surface appearance isn’t dramatic. A minor sunburn on the arm, by contrast, is a superficial, limited injury that responds to simple local care and does not meet criteria for transfer to a burn center.