What does 'Rule of Nines' assess in burns?

The 'Rule of Nines' is a quick and practical tool used to assess the percentage of body surface area that has been burned. This method divides the body into sections that are roughly equal to nine percent, or multiples of nine, of the total body surface area. For example, the entire head is considered to be 9%, each arm is 9%, the front of the torso is 18%, and so on.

This assessment is crucial in determining the severity of burns and guiding treatment decisions, including fluid resuscitation and referral to a specialized burn unit if necessary. Understanding the extent of burns aids healthcare providers in evaluating the patient's overall condition and the urgency of treatment required.

The other options, while related to the management of burns, do not describe what the 'Rule of Nines' specifically assesses. The type and severity of burns are determined based on the characteristics of the burn itself (such as depth and cause), and duration of treatment is more concerned with the healing process rather than the immediate assessment of burn surface area.