What is the primary concern with partial thickness burns?

The primary concern with partial thickness burns lies in the potential for infection and the significant pain they can cause. Partial thickness burns, also known as second-degree burns, damage both the epidermis and part of the dermis, leading to exposed nerve endings. This results in notable pain, which can be extreme and impacts the patient's comfort and well-being.

Infection is a critical concern because the damaged skin barrier allows bacteria to enter the body more easily. If the burn becomes infected, it can lead to more severe complications and delay the healing process. Therefore, ensuring that these burns are managed effectively with proper wound care and observation is essential to prevent infection and reduce pain.

While permanent scarring and the need for surgical interventions can occur with more severe burns, these are not the primary concerns with partial thickness burns. Immediate shock is typically more associated with severe burns rather than partial thickness burns, thus making infection and pain the key issues to address.