Which of the following can indicate burns during heat application?

A pearly white appearance of the skin is a critical indicator of burns resulting from heat application. When tissue is subjected to excessive heat, it can cause cellular degeneration and extensive damage, leading to significant changes in skin appearance. The pearly white coloration suggests that the tissue has been compromised, often indicating a deeper type of burn. This occurs because the heat causes coagulation of proteins and destruction of blood vessels, which can result in a loss of blood flow and moisture, leading to that characteristic appearance.

In contrast, increased joint mobility, reduced sensitivity, and decreased redness do not indicate burns. Increased joint mobility may suggest the opposite effect, as heat application is often intended to decrease stiffness. Reduced sensitivity may indicate nerve damage or other protective mechanisms, while decreased redness could imply inadequate blood flow rather than a healthy healing response. Therefore, recognizing the pearly white appearance is crucial for identifying burns and ensuring appropriate treatment.