A nurse is assessing a client who has an electrical burn. Which of the following cues should the nurse recognize as indicating a potential complication of the burn injury?
Cool and clammy skin
Purulent drainage from the burn site
Muscle weakness
Irregular heart rhythm
The Correct Answer is D
A. Cool and clammy skin:
May indicate shock but is not specific to electrical burns.
B. Purulent drainage from the burn site:
Suggests infection, a later complication rather than immediate concern.
C. Muscle weakness:
Can occur but is less urgent than cardiac effects.
D. Irregular heart rhythm:
Electrical burns can cause internal cardiac damage and arrhythmias-potentially life-threatening.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Hyperkalemia: During the emergent phase, massive cell injury causes potassium to leak into the extracellular space, raising serum K+ levels.
B. Hypokalemia: More common later in the fluid resuscitation or diuretic phase.
C. Hypernatremia: Sodium is often lost into burned tissues or with fluid shifts; hyponatremia may be seen early.
D. Hypocalcemia: While possible, especially if blood products are given, hyperkalemia is more prominent early.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Oxygen saturation 93%:
While this is slightly below normal, it is not a definitive or specific indicator of fluid overload.
B. Distended neck veins:
Jugular vein distention is a classic sign of fluid overload and increased central venous pressure.
C. The client has gained 1 pound since yesterday:
A 1-pound weight gain could be due to fluid retention, but it's not significant enough on its own to confirm fluid overload.
D. Return of skin to previous position when the client's shin is palpated:
This indicates normal skin turgor and does not suggest fluid overload; instead, it rules out dehydration.
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