Which of the following is a symptom of a third degree burn?

A third-degree burn is characterized by its severe damage to the skin layers, affecting not only the epidermis and dermis but also the underlying tissues. The correct choice describes the typical appearance of a third-degree burn, which often presents as a charred or white area on the skin. This occurs because the burn has destroyed nerve endings, blood vessels, and skin layers, leading to a lack of color in the affected tissue.

In contrast, other symptoms mentioned do not align with what you would observe in a third-degree burn. Blistering is a symptom more commonly associated with first and second-degree burns, where the skin is still partially intact. Mild pain would not typically be felt with a third-degree burn due to the destruction of nerve endings, and a red, spotty appearance is characteristic of first-degree burns. Therefore, understanding the specific characteristics of different burn degrees is key for recognizing symptoms and providing appropriate first aid or medical intervention.