Which of the following is a characteristic of severe burns?

Severe burns often involve extensive damage to multiple layers of skin and underlying tissues, which can compromise functionality and appearance. One of the critical characteristics of severe burns is that they may necessitate skin grafts for proper healing. This is because severe burns, particularly third-degree burns, typically destroy the epidermis and dermis, and the natural healing process may be insufficient to restore the skin's integrity. Skin grafts are used to replace lost or damaged skin and promote the healing process.

In contrast, first-degree burns (which are considered minor) can often be treated effectively with basic first aid measures. Superficial tissue damage is associated with less severe burns, such as first-degree burns, where only the outer layer of skin is affected. Additionally, classifying burns solely by pain level does not adequately address the extent of tissue damage or the appropriate treatment necessary for recovery. These other points emphasize why skin grafts are a key indicator of severe burn injury.