What criterion must be met for patients to be transferred to a burn center according to the American Burn Association?

The correct criterion for transferring patients to a burn center, according to the American Burn Association, is the presence of third-degree burns. Third-degree burns are characterized by full-thickness injury, which involves the epidermis, dermis, and can extend into the subcutaneous tissue. These burns often require specialized care because they can lead to severe complications, including infection and significant fluid loss, and may necessitate surgical intervention such as skin grafting.

In contrast, second-degree burns that cover less than 10% Total Body Surface Area (TBSA), burns involving only minor extremities, and superficial burns with minor inhalation injuries are typically managed at non-burn centers, as they are considered less severe and do not need the specialized resources available at dedicated burn centers.