A nurse has accepted care of a client with a major burn injury. The burns are 2nd and 3rd degree and estimated at 45% of total body surface area (TBSA). In addressing the pathophysiologic changes resulting from major burns the nurse is aware that the priority intervention for this client is?
Maintain adequate IV hydration
Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics
Give IV potassium chloride
Prepare intramuscular pain medications
The Correct Answer is A
A. Maintain adequate IV hydration: The first priority in major burns is fluid resuscitation due to massive fluid shifts and risk of hypovolemic shock.
B. Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics: Not a priority during the initial resuscitative phase. Infection control comes later unless signs of sepsis appear.
C. Give IV potassium chloride: Burn patients often experience hyperkalemia initially due to cell lysis; potassium is not given early.
D. Prepare intramuscular pain medications: IM route is avoided due to poor perfusion and risk of inadequate absorption in burn patients.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"C"}
Explanation
Critical to assess: A. Airway patency and signs of inhalation injury
Clients in enclosed-space fires are at high risk for inhalation injury, which can lead to airway edema and obstruction. This is the first priority.
Critical assessment finding: C. Singed nasal hairs and soot around the nares
These are hallmark signs of possible inhalation injury and may indicate airway compromise even before symptoms become severe.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Client with partial and deep partial thickness burns on the face and neck with high-pitched respiratory sounds: High-pitched respiratory sounds (stridor) suggest impending airway obstruction, which is life-threatening and requires immediate intervention.
B. Client with facial burns and expectorating sooty secretions in no distress: At risk for inhalation injury but not in immediate respiratory distress.
C. Client with dry, black skin on both hands and a history of diabetes mellitus: Eschar and possible full-thickness burns are serious but not immediately life-threatening compared to airway compromise.
D. Client with moist blisters over the back and who reports pain as 10: Pain is expected and manageable; airway takes priority.
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