What characterizes partial thickness burns?

Partial thickness burns are characterized by damage to both the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and part of the underlying layer (dermis). This type of burn typically presents with blisters, which occur due to the accumulation of fluid between the layers of skin. The presence of blisters indicates that the burn is significant enough to affect the dermis. Additionally, partial thickness burns are usually painful, as nerve endings are still intact in the dermis, sending pain signals to the brain. This pain can vary from mild to severe depending on the depth of the burn.

The other options do not accurately reflect the characteristics of partial thickness burns. For instance, the absence of blisters or mild pain would more accurately describe a superficial burn, while blackened skin and no pain are indicative of full thickness burns, which destroy nerve endings and skin layers. The statement about instant skin grafting is also not applicable, as partial thickness burns may heal without grafting depending on the extent of the burn. Therefore, the defining features of blisters, weeping fluid, and pain make the correct choice the most suitable representation of partial thickness burns.