Rule of nines for burns in babies and young children
The size of a burn for a baby or young child can be quickly estimated by using the "rule of nines." This method divides a baby's body surface area into percentages.
The front and back of the head and neck are 21% of the body's surface area.
The front and back of each arm and hand are 10% of the body's surface area.
The chest and stomach are 13% of the body's surface area.
The back is 13% of the body's surface area.
The buttocks and genital area are 6% of the body's surface area.
The front and back of each leg and foot are 13.5% of the body's surface area.
Current as of: June 26, 2019
Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review: William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine H. Michael O'Connor MD - Emergency Medicine Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
Medical Review:William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & H. Michael O'Connor MD - Emergency Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.