The Palm Method estimates TBSA as approximately what percentage per palm?

The Palm Method estimates TBSA as approximately what percentage per palm?

• A. 5%
• B. 2%
• C. 10%
• D. 1%

Answer: (D)

The Palm Method uses the patient’s own hand as a quick reference unit, with one palm representing about 1% of total body surface area. So a burn the size of one palm is roughly 1% TBSA. If both palms are burned, it’s about 2%, and you can estimate larger areas by counting additional palms. This approach is fast and practical at the bedside for initial assessment, though it’s an estimate and less precise for very young children or irregular burns, where more detailed methods like Lund and Browder are preferred.

The Palm Method uses the patient’s own hand as a quick reference unit, with one palm representing about 1% of total body surface area. So a burn the size of one palm is roughly 1% TBSA. If both palms are burned, it’s about 2%, and you can estimate larger areas by counting additional palms. This approach is fast and practical at the bedside for initial assessment, though it’s an estimate and less precise for very young children or irregular burns, where more detailed methods like Lund and Browder are preferred.