A&P 1 101 - Portage Learning
Module 7 Exam: The Integumentary System
Questions & Rationale
Q1: The stratum basale (stratum germinativum) is characterized by which of the
following features?
A. It consists of dead, keratinized cells that are constantly shed
B. It contains melanocytes and is the site of continuous cell division [CORRECT]
C. It is the most superficial layer of the epidermis
D. It is only present in thick skin found on the palms and soles
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The stratum basale is the deepest epidermal layer, containing stem cells that
undergo mitosis to produce new keratinocytes. It also contains melanocytes
(pigment-producing cells). The stratum corneum (A, C) is the superficial dead layer. The
stratum basale is present in all skin, not just thick skin (D)—the stratum lucidum is
specific to thick skin.
Q2: A patient presents with a full-thickness burn involving the entire epidermis, dermis,
and extending into the subcutaneous tissue. According to the traditional burn
classification system, this represents a:
A. First-degree burn
, B. Second-degree burn
C. Third-degree burn [CORRECT]
D. Fourth-degree burn
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Third-degree (full-thickness) burns destroy the entire epidermis and dermis,
often extending into deeper tissues. These burns are painless due to destruction of
sensory nerve endings, appear white/charred/leathery, and require grafting. First-degree
(A) involves epidermis only (red, painful). Second-degree (B) involves epidermis and
partial dermis (blisters). Fourth-degree (D) extends to muscle/bone.
Q3: Using the Rule of Nines, a patient has burns covering the entire anterior trunk and
the entire right upper extremity. What percentage of total body surface area (TBSA) is
affected?
A. 18%
B. 27%
C. 36% [CORRECT]
D. 45%
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The Rule of Nines: Anterior trunk = 18% (9% chest + 9% abdomen), Entire right
upper extremity = 18% (9% anterior arm + 9% posterior arm). Total = 36%. This
calculation is critical for fluid resuscitation (Parkland formula) and triage. Errors often
Module 7 Exam: The Integumentary System
Questions & Rationale
Q1: The stratum basale (stratum germinativum) is characterized by which of the
following features?
A. It consists of dead, keratinized cells that are constantly shed
B. It contains melanocytes and is the site of continuous cell division [CORRECT]
C. It is the most superficial layer of the epidermis
D. It is only present in thick skin found on the palms and soles
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The stratum basale is the deepest epidermal layer, containing stem cells that
undergo mitosis to produce new keratinocytes. It also contains melanocytes
(pigment-producing cells). The stratum corneum (A, C) is the superficial dead layer. The
stratum basale is present in all skin, not just thick skin (D)—the stratum lucidum is
specific to thick skin.
Q2: A patient presents with a full-thickness burn involving the entire epidermis, dermis,
and extending into the subcutaneous tissue. According to the traditional burn
classification system, this represents a:
A. First-degree burn
, B. Second-degree burn
C. Third-degree burn [CORRECT]
D. Fourth-degree burn
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Third-degree (full-thickness) burns destroy the entire epidermis and dermis,
often extending into deeper tissues. These burns are painless due to destruction of
sensory nerve endings, appear white/charred/leathery, and require grafting. First-degree
(A) involves epidermis only (red, painful). Second-degree (B) involves epidermis and
partial dermis (blisters). Fourth-degree (D) extends to muscle/bone.
Q3: Using the Rule of Nines, a patient has burns covering the entire anterior trunk and
the entire right upper extremity. What percentage of total body surface area (TBSA) is
affected?
A. 18%
B. 27%
C. 36% [CORRECT]
D. 45%
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The Rule of Nines: Anterior trunk = 18% (9% chest + 9% abdomen), Entire right
upper extremity = 18% (9% anterior arm + 9% posterior arm). Total = 36%. This
calculation is critical for fluid resuscitation (Parkland formula) and triage. Errors often
