What classification best describes a scald burn on the arm that is bright red, moist, and has several blisters?

A scald burn characterized by bright red, moist skin along with the presence of several blisters is classified as a superficial partial-thickness burn. This type of burn typically affects the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and a portion of the underlying layer (dermis).

The symptoms observed, such as redness and moisture, indicate that the burn is still actively involved in the inflammatory phase, which is a hallmark of superficial partial-thickness burns. The formation of blisters is also a significant feature, as this occurs when damage to the epidermal layer leads to fluid accumulation between the epidermis and dermis.

In contrast, a full-thickness burn would present with a more severe clinical picture, showing a lack of sensation (due to nerve damage), charred appearance, or a leathery texture, which is not the case here. A deep partial-thickness burn would typically have more severity in depth and exhibit more extensive damage with less moisture or blistering compared to the symptoms described. While a thermal burn refers to the mechanism of injury (in this case, caused by heat), it does not specifically classify the extent of tissue involvement, which is the primary focus in this scenario. Thus, the classification as a superficial partial-thickness