Which characteristic is indicative of full thickness burns?

Full thickness burns, also known as third-degree burns, are characterized by damage that extends through all layers of the skin, affecting not only the epidermis and dermis but also the underlying tissues. This type of burn typically presents with a black or charred appearance, often described as leathery or dry. The skin may not blanch when pressure is applied due to the destruction of blood vessels.

One of the defining features of full thickness burns is loss of sensation in the affected area. This occurs because the nerve endings are damaged. As a result, patients often do not experience pain in the burned areas, contrasting with superficial or partial thickness burns where pain is prevalent and blisters may form.

In summary, the black, leathery appearance along with loss of sensation is a key indicator that distinguishes full thickness burns from other types of burns. Other characteristics typically involve varying degrees of pain and skin integrity, which do not align with the presentation of full thickness burns.