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Using the rule of nines, what percentage of an adult's leg represents body surface area?

  1. 9%

  2. 18%

  3. 27%

  4. 36%

The correct answer is: 18%

In the rule of nines, which is a method for estimating the total body surface area (TBSA) affected by burns, the adult human body is divided into sections, each assigned a percentage that represents its contribution to the total body surface area. For adults, each leg is assigned 18% of the total body surface area, which is divided into two segments: the anterior (front) portion of the leg accounts for 9%, and the posterior (back) portion accounts for another 9%. Thus, when considering the total body surface area represented by one entire leg in an adult, it sums up to 18%. This system provides a quick and practical way for medical professionals to assess burn injuries and guide treatment decisions effectively.