Which degree of burn is typically characterized by blisters and swelling?

The correct answer is the degree of burn typically characterized by blisters and swelling is second-degree burns. Second-degree burns involve damage to both the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and the underlying layer (dermis). This depth of injury leads to symptoms such as redness, swelling, and notable blistering. The formation of blisters arises as the body attempts to protect the underlying tissues from further injury and to facilitate healing by creating a fluid-filled sac that helps to keep the damaged area moist.

First-degree burns, on the other hand, only affect the outermost layer of the skin and generally result in redness and mild swelling without blistering. Third-degree burns penetrate deeper, damaging all layers of the skin and possibly affecting underlying tissues, which can lead to a dry, leathery appearance rather than blisters. Electrical burns result from electrical currents and can vary in their depth of injury but are not specifically characterized by blisters and swelling as defined in the question.

Understanding the characteristics of burns is crucial for proper treatment and management, which is why knowing the distinguishing factors, such as the presence of blisters, is important in assessing burn severity.