In a deep partial-thickness burn, which sensation would be preserved?

• A. Vibration and pressure
• B. Pain
• C. Temperature
• D. Light touch

Answer: (A)

The depth of a burn determines which nerve fibers and receptors are damaged. In a deep partial-thickness burn, the injury reaches into the deeper dermal layers where many superficial nerve endings lie, so sensations like pain and temperature—carried by small, superficial fibers—are often diminished. However, the receptors that detect vibration and deep pressure sit deeper in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, and these deeper pathways are more likely to be spared at this depth. Therefore, vibration and deep pressure can remain present even when other sensory modalities are reduced. This is why preserving vibration and deep-pressure sensation is typical in deep partial-thickness burns.