What defines thermal burns?

Thermal burns are defined by injuries that result from exposure to heat sources. This includes contact with flames, hot liquids (scalds), steam, or hot objects. The critical factor in thermal burns is the transfer of heat energy to the skin, which causes tissue damage and can vary in severity based on the temperature of the source and the duration of exposure.

In relation to the options, thermal burns are not characterized by chemical exposure, which is specific to chemical burns. The idea of burns occurring above body temperature applies but is too vague; many things above body temperature are not necessarily thermal burns. Lastly, while friction can cause burns, these are primarily categorized as friction burns, not thermal burns, as they result from mechanical rather than thermal energy. Thus, understanding thermal burns as injuries caused directly by heat sources effectively captures the essence of this type of injury.