A nurse is caring for a client who has burns to approximately 50% of their body. Which of the following physiological changes related to the burns should the nurse anticipate? (Select all that apply.)
Decreased plasma volume
Diuresis
Hypermagnesemia
Capillary leak
Loss of protein
Correct Answer : A,D,E
A. Decreased plasma volume: Burn injuries cause a significant inflammatory response, leading to fluid shifts from the intravascular space to the interstitial space. This results in hypovolemia and decreased plasma volume, especially during the acute phase of burns.
B. Diuresis: Diuresis typically occurs after fluid resuscitation and stabilization of the client (in the later phase of burn recovery). In the initial phase, oliguria is more common due to hypovolemia and reduced renal perfusion.
C. Hypermagnesemia: Hypermagnesemia is not typically associated with burn injuries. Instead, clients with burns often experience hypomagnesemia due to fluid shifts, protein loss, and increased renal losses.
D. Capillary leak: Burn injuries lead to a systemic inflammatory response, causing capillary leak syndrome. This increases vascular permeability, allowing fluid, electrolytes, and proteins to leak into the interstitial spaces, contributing to edema and hypovolemia.
E. Loss of protein: Proteins are lost through damaged capillaries and open burn wounds, contributing to decreased oncotic pressure, edema, and a need for aggressive nutritional support to promote healing and recovery.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. There is no redness, warmth, or drainage at the insertion site.
This assessment is crucial for evaluating the status of the abdominal drain site. The absence of redness, warmth, or drainage suggests that the insertion site is healing well without signs of infection or inflammation. It indicates that the drain is functioning properly and that there are no immediate complications related to the drain insertion. This assessment directly addresses the goals related to monitoring the drain site for signs of infection or dysfunction.
B. Drainage from the surgical site is 30 mL less than yesterday.
Monitoring the drainage output from the surgical site is important to assess for changes in drainage patterns. A decrease in drainage volume may indicate reduced fluid accumulation at the surgical site, potentially reflecting improved healing and decreased need for drainage. However, while this assessment is valuable, it is not as directly related to assessing the status of the drain itself or evaluating complications at the insertion site as option A.
C. The patient reports adequate pain control with medications.
Pain control is an essential aspect of postoperative care, but it is not specifically related to assessing the functionality or complications of the abdominal drain. While pain management is important for patient comfort and recovery, it does not directly address the goals related to monitoring the drain site for signs of infection, leakage, or other complications.
D. Urine is clear yellow, and urine output is greater than 40 mL/hr.
While monitoring urine output and characteristics is important for assessing renal function and hydration status, it is not directly related to assessing the abdominal drain or its complications. Clear yellow urine and adequate urine output are generally positive indicators but do not provide specific information about the functionality or status of the drain.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Loose connective tissue:
Melanocytes are not typically found in loose connective tissue. Their primary location is within the epidermis, specifically in the basal layer, where they interact with keratinocytes to produce melanin and contribute to skin color. Loose connective tissue contains collagen and elastin fibers, as well as fibroblasts, but it does not house melanocytes.
B. Epidermis:
This is the correct answer. Melanocytes are primarily located in the basal layer of the epidermis, which is the deepest layer of the epidermis. These cells produce melanin, a pigment that helps protect the skin from UV radiation and determines skin color. Melanocytes are interspersed among keratinocytes in the epidermis and transfer melanin to keratinocytes to provide skin pigmentation.
C. Dermis:
The dermis is the layer of skin beneath the epidermis and consists of connective tissue, blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles, and sweat glands. While the dermis plays a crucial role in supporting and nourishing the epidermis, melanocytes are not primarily located in the dermis. They are confined to the basal layer of the epidermis.
D. Superficial fascia:
The superficial fascia, also known as the subcutaneous tissue or hypodermis, lies beneath the dermis and consists of adipose (fat) tissue and connective tissue. It provides insulation, energy storage, and cushioning for underlying structures. However, melanocytes are not typically found in the superficial fascia. They are restricted to the epidermis, specifically the basal layer, where they carry out their function of melanin production.

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