The size of a burn can be quickly estimated by using the "RULE OF NINES." This method divides the body's surface area into percentages. The front and back of the head and neck equal 9% of the body's surface area. The front and back of each arm and hand equal 9% of the body's surface area. The PALMER METHOD of estimating total body surface area (TBSA) is an easy way to get a rough burn size estimate that can be used when calculating a patient's fluid resuscitation needs. The patient's palmer surface including their fingers = 1% TBSA.